After a baby is born, the umbilical cord is clamped and cut, leaving a small stump attached to the baby’s belly button. This tissue naturally dries and detaches. The belly button forms as the area fully heals.
The Healing Process and Timeline
The umbilical cord stump typically dries and falls off within one to three weeks after birth, often around 10 to 14 days, though some may take up to 21 days. Initially, the stump may appear yellowish and somewhat wet. As healing progresses, it gradually changes color, becoming brown, gray, or even black, and its texture will become harder and more shriveled.
Once the stump detaches, a small, raw-looking spot or a scab may remain where the cord was attached. It is normal to observe a few drops of blood or a small amount of clear or blood-tinged fluid oozing from the area immediately after detachment. This remaining area typically heals completely within a few more days, forming the baby’s belly button.
Caring for the Umbilical Stump
Maintaining cleanliness and dryness of the umbilical cord stump is important for proper healing and to prevent infection. Parents should wash their hands before touching the stump area. It is recommended to use only water and a soft cloth or cotton pads to gently clean around the stump, avoiding antiseptics, alcohol, or special creams unless advised by a healthcare professional. After cleaning, the area should be gently patted dry with a clean cloth and allowed to air dry.
To ensure air exposure and prevent irritation from diapers, fold the top of the baby’s diaper down below the stump. Some newborn diapers are designed with a special notch for this purpose. Until the stump has fully detached and the belly button is healed, sponge baths are recommended to keep the area dry and avoid submerging it in water. It is important to allow the stump to fall off naturally and never attempt to pull it off, even if it appears to be barely attached.
Signs Requiring Medical Attention
While umbilical stump healing is usually straightforward, be aware of signs that may indicate a complication or infection, prompting a call to a healthcare provider. Signs include redness or swelling spreading around the base of the stump, or any foul-smelling discharge, yellowish fluid, or pus leaking from the area.
Persistent bleeding (more than a few drops or not stopping with gentle pressure) also warrants medical attention. If the baby develops a fever, appears lethargic, refuses to feed, or cries when the umbilical area is touched, these could be signs of an infection. If the umbilical stump has not fallen off after three to four weeks, consult a doctor for evaluation.