What it is
The cord stump is the inch of cord left clamped on the baby's belly. It has no nerves, so touching it does not hurt. It dries, turns brown then black, and falls off on its own. A little blood on the diaper and some crust at the base are normal as it separates.
What's typical
Most stumps fall off between 7 and 21 days, usually 10 to 14. A faint smell near the end is common; a strong foul smell is not. After it falls off, the belly button may look raw for a few days. Some babies grow a small pink, moist bump called a granuloma. The pediatrician can take care of it in the office.
What's known
The AAP and WHO describe dry cord care for babies born in hospitals: clean, dry, open to air. Alcohol on the stump used to be standard and is no longer advised; it slows separation.
What helps
- Fold the top of the diaper down below the stump so it gets air.
- Sponge baths only until it falls off, then tub baths.
- If it gets wet or poopy, dab with plain water and pat dry.
- Do not pull, even when it hangs by a thread.
When to call someone
- Nowredness or swelling spreading onto the belly, pus, a foul smell, a fever, or bleeding that does not stop with gentle pressure.
- Todaythe base stays wet and red a day after it falls off, or the skin around it is sore to touch.
- At your next visitstill attached at four weeks, or a pink bump that stays.
Who helps
Tools: Postpartum Prep Checklist
Related
- Bathing a newbornBaby Basics
- Fever in a newborn is an emergencyBaby Basics
- When to call the pediatrician (and when to go in)Baby Basics
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Sources
- American Academy of Pediatrics, HealthyChildren.org — Umbilical cord care in newborns
- World Health Organization — Recommendations on postnatal care of the mother and newborn
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