When your baby is born the umbilical cord will be clamped and cut. A small umbilical cord stump is left attached to where your baby’s belly button will eventually be. The stump will dry and fall off sometime during the first couple of weeks. For new parents this little stump causes much concern and fear. What exactly are you supposed to do with it? How do you care for it? Does it hurt the baby?  How do I know if something is wrong?

Your pediatrician and the nursing staff of the hospital will explain all about the umbilical cord stump and how to care for it before you leave the hospital. While you are in the hospital, surrounded by expert care, is the best time to ask questions. If you are unsure about what to do ask someone, they will be happy to show you.

Here are some general tips for caring for the umbilical cord stump until it falls off.

• Keep the area clean and dry. At each diaper change be sure to thoroughly clean the area and make sure it is completely dry before you dress the baby. While you wait for the stump to fall off you should give your baby sponge baths instead of submersing them in water to help keep the area dry.

• Expose the umbilical cord stump to light and air as this will aid in the drying out and healing process.

• Fold the front of the diaper down in the front so that it does not cover the umbilical cord stump. This will allow the cord stump to stay exposed to the air and will prevent the contents of the diaper from irritating or infecting the area. Some diaper companies now make newborn diapers that already dip down in the front so you don’t have to worry about folding the diaper over.

It is normal to see some traces of discharge or dried blood in the area as it heals, however, if you notice any of the following you should immediately contact your pediatrician.

• Sudden fever
• Redness or swelling around the stump area
• The area continues to bleed
• Any oozing of yellowish, foul-smelling discharge