The umbilical cord which carries nutrition from your placenta to the foetus during pregnancy is clamped and cut when the baby is born and an umbilical stump is left attached to your baby's navel.
While the stump usually dries off in a week to 20 days, it leaves behind an open skin which takes time to heal. However, it is highly susceptible to infections and germs. There are times that you notice a yellowish discharge from it, which is quite normal.
Here are some easy tips to take care of your baby's umbilical stump:
- Keep the stump clean and dry at all times.
- If your baby wears diapers make sure that it is tied in such a manner that it does not rub the stump area.
- It is advisable to give your newborn sponge baths instead of tub baths to prevent any infection.
- Make sure that you baby is dressed comfortably if he is born in the hot summer months
- Never ever touch the baby with your bare hands.
- Do not use soap to wash the umbilical stump.
While infections are rare, consult a doctor if you see that the navel area is inflamed and warm. Also, consult the doctor if you notice an unusual discharge or bleeding from it.
Watch this video to see a step-by-step demonstration on how to clean and take care of your newborn's umbilical stump.
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