Umbilical cord care

In developed countries, where the risk of inflammation of the navel (omphalitis) is low, dry care of the cord stump is recommended.

What does this mean?

• try to keep the umbilical cord stump dry; if there is any clear discharge, or the navel has been soiled with stool or urine, gently remove the dirt with a cotton pad moistened with boiled water, wipe it so that no excess liquid is left, but do not overdo it! The cord stump contains no nerve endings, so you will not hurt the baby; however, pressing too hard can damage the navel wound.
• use air baths as often as possible, leaving the navel open to the air. Remember about temperature and humidity: if the apartment is hot and humidity is high, the navel will be damp too. normal conditions in a baby's room are an air temperature of 18-20 C and humidity of 40-60%.
• use diapers with a special cut-out for the navel, or fold down the top edge of the diaper so that it does not cover the navel and does not create a greenhouse effect.
• use clothing made of natural, breathable fabrics.
• until the cord stump falls off it is recommended to give sponge baths - wiping the baby with a damp sponge rather than immersing them in water. However, if the baby is heavily soiled, a bath may be used. This method is also used in order to keep the cord stump dry.
• try not to touch the navel unnecessarily, and if you do touch it, always wash your hands! The cord stump is an open wound through which an infection can easily be introduced.
• do not use topical antiseptics on the navel without a doctor's prescription! I wrote above why.

When you should definitely see a doctor

• the cord stump has not fallen off after 2-3 weeks;
• the navel is bleeding;
• the navel is swollen, red, with increased local temperature;
• purulent discharge from the navel with an unpleasant odour.

All these signs may indicate inflammation of the navel - omphalitis.