25 Aug Caring for Baby’s Umbilical Cord
3 min. readThe umbilical cord connects the fetus and the mother’s circulation. After the baby is born, you need to take proper care of the cord until it shrivels and falls off. Until it falls off, you need to make sure that there is no chance of infection.
Unfortunately, most parents are not aware of the ways they can take care of their newborn baby’s umbilical cord. This article will cover some basic tips to protect your baby’s umbilical cord and keep it safe from infection or other complications. But before that, let’s understand why the umbilical cord matters.
Why Is Umbilical Cord Important?
The umbilical cord is a baby’s lifeline since it allows oxygen and blood to flow to your baby. It also helps in removing the baby’s waste. The cord can become a primary cause of omphalitis, which is a type of infection. Though it is a very rare infection, you must take proper care of your baby’s umbilical cord.
Some parents might also worry as the umbilical cord might start bleeding after it falls. It is quite normal for the cord to bleed when it falls off. However, if you notice that the bleeding continues for a long time, then you might want to discuss the issue with your pediatrician.
Tips to Take Care of Umbilical Cord
It is the parent’s responsibility to ensure that the umbilical is safe and infection-free until it dries up and falls off. Unfortunately, it’s not hard to find some questionable suggestions online. So, here are some evidence-based tips to help you take proper care of your newborn baby’s belly button.
Don’t put it Inside the Diaper
Keeping the umbilical cord exposed will help it dry out and drop off faster. You might find cut-outs in most diapers for newborns. But if the diapers don’t have one, you can fold the top part of it. Now, the diaper won’t come in contact with the cord and won’t irritate the baby either.
Keep the Cord Dry
Another thing that you need to remember is that you need to keep the cord dry. Most doctors suggest that parents give a sponge bath to their baby until the cord dries up and falls off. The main reason is that the bacteria can thrive in a moist and wet environment and slow down the healing process.
Keep the Cord Clean
You should wash your hands before you touch the cord or change your baby’s diapers, and avoid applying lotions or anything else near the umbilical cord. You should also keep an eye out for any possible symptoms of an infection. If you notice something unusual, you should contact your pediatrician.
When to Contact a Doctor?
If there are any possible signs of an infection or prolonged bleeding after the cord falls off, then you should contact a pediatrician. The professionals at Continuum Pediatrics can offer plenty of help with your newborn’s umbilical cord. You can call at 817-617-8600 to get more information about your newborn baby’s cord.