The common question for new parents is how to manage the diaper around the small piece of tissue remaining on the baby’s abdomen after birth, known as the umbilical stump. This remnant of the umbilical cord is typically one-half to one inch long and must be kept clean and dry while it heals. The way a diaper is positioned can either support or hinder the natural process of the stump drying and falling off.
The Umbilical Stump Healing Process
The umbilical cord stump goes through a natural process of drying and shriveling before it separates. The stump changes color from an initial shiny, yellowish-white to a darker brown, gray, or black as it dries out. This color change indicates the tissue is beginning to necrotize, which is a normal part of the healing.
Separation usually occurs within one to three weeks after birth. The goal of care during this period is to ensure the area remains clean and exposed to air, which accelerates the drying process. Once the stump falls off, a small wound remains that typically heals completely within one to two weeks, forming the belly button.
Diaper Positioning for Newborns
The definitive recommendation is that the diaper should not cover the umbilical stump. This positioning promotes airflow, which is necessary for the stump to dry properly and fall off. Covering the area traps moisture, which slows healing and creates an environment favorable for bacterial growth and irritation.
Parents use two main methods to ensure the diaper sits below the stump. Many newborn disposable diapers come with a pre-cut notch or contoured area at the waistband designed to keep the stump exposed. This specialized design is the simplest way to avoid contact and allow for air circulation.
For standard or cloth diapers, the folding technique is the practical alternative. The top front edge of the diaper is folded down and away from the baby’s abdomen, creating a lower waistband beneath the stump. This careful positioning also prevents the stump from being irritated by friction or contaminated by urine or feces, which poses an infection risk.
Signs of Umbilical Irritation
While a small amount of clear or sticky discharge and minor spotting of blood are normal as the stump separates, parents should watch for signs of irritation or a potential infection, known as omphalitis. A key warning sign is persistent redness or swelling that spreads to the skin surrounding the base of the stump. The skin color around the stump should match the rest of the baby’s skin.
The presence of a foul odor or a thick, cloudy, or yellowish-green discharge suggests a possible bacterial infection. Tenderness is another indication, often seen if the baby cries when the area is lightly touched. If a baby develops a fever, experiences spreading redness, or has active bleeding (more than just a few drops), a healthcare provider should be contacted immediately.