Umbilical Stump Care in Newborns: What Parents Need to Know

Caring for your baby’s umbilical stump is simple but important. Proper care prevents infection and promotes natural healing. Here’s what parents should know:

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🍼 What Is the Umbilical Stump?

• After birth, the umbilical cord is clamped and cut.

• A small stump (about 1–2 inches) remains, which dries up and falls off usually within 1–3 weeks.

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✅ Do’s for Umbilical Stump Care

1. Keep it clean and dry:

   • Clean with plain water if dirty.

   • Gently pat dry with a clean cloth or let it air-dry.

   • No alcohol swabs unless advised by your doctor.

2. Fold diaper away from the stump:

   • This prevents moisture and rubbing.

   • Many newborn diapers have a special cut-out for the stump.

3. Dress your baby in loose clothes:

   • Allows air circulation and prevents irritation.

4. Give sponge baths only until the stump falls off:

   • Avoid submerging in water.

5. Let it fall off naturally:

   • Do not pull or try to remove it even if it’s hanging.

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❌ Don’ts for Umbilical Stump Care

• Don’t apply powders, ointments, or antiseptics unless prescribed.

• Don’t tug at the stump.

• Don’t cover it with tight clothes or bandages.

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⚠️ When to Worry – Call a Doctor If You Notice:

• Redness or swelling around the base

• Foul-smelling discharge or pus

• Fever in your baby

• Bleeding that doesn’t stop after gentle pressure

• Stump hasn’t fallen off after 3–4 weeks