From the Research
The umbilical cord stump typically falls off on its own within 1-3 weeks after birth, and to care for it properly, keep the area clean and dry by gently wiping around the base with plain water during baths and allowing it to air dry completely afterward. To minimize the risk of infection and promote healing, it's essential to follow proper care techniques.
Key Care Techniques:
- Fold the diaper below the stump to prevent irritation and moisture collection.
- Avoid submerging your baby in a tub bath until the cord falls off and the area heals.
- Signs of infection requiring medical attention include redness extending from the base, yellow or foul-smelling discharge, bleeding, or if the area feels warm or appears swollen. It's normal to see a small amount of dried blood when the cord detaches. The stump falls off naturally as the tissue dries out and separates from the healed belly button underneath. After it falls off, continue keeping the area clean and dry for a few days until fully healed.
Evidence-Based Recommendations:
There's no need to apply alcohol or other substances to the stump, as research shows these don't prevent infection and may delay the natural healing process 1, 2. In fact, a study published in 2013 found that cord cleansing with 4% chlorhexidine may reduce the risk of neonatal mortality and sepsis in low-resource settings 2. However, the most recent and highest quality study, published in 2020, suggests that an algorithm incorporating umbilical-cord-blood procalcitonin level could significantly reduce antibiotics exposure in neonates with suspected early-onset sepsis 3.
Important Considerations:
- Umbilical catheters can be vectors for generalized bacterial infection in premature infants, regardless of antibiotic use 4.
- Good trials in low-income settings are warranted to determine the best approach to umbilical cord care 1. By following these guidelines and considering the latest evidence, you can help ensure the best possible outcome for your baby's umbilical cord stump and overall health.