Skin & Hygiene

Umbilical Cord Care

Umbilical cord stump falls off naturally in 1-3 weeks. Keep dry and exposed to air to promote healing. Modern guidance: Leave it alone - no alcohol, no ointments.

Stump changes from yellowish-green to brown/black as it dries. May have small amount of blood when it falls off (normal).

Fold diaper down below stump to keep it dry. Give sponge baths only until stump falls off.

What to Do

Keep stump dry - give sponge baths only until it falls off
Fold diaper down below stump so urine doesn't wet it
Expose stump to air as much as possible - loosely dress or leave belly bare
DO NOT pull at stump - let it fall off naturally even if hanging by thread
DO NOT use alcohol, ointments, or creams unless doctor specifically instructs
Watch for signs of infection: redness, foul smell, pus, or baby seems unwell

When to call a doctor

Call doctor if you see: red skin around base spreading outward, foul smell, pus/cloudy discharge, bleeding that doesn't stop with gentle pressure, or baby has fever. These may indicate infection.

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