The umbilical cord clamp serves a significant function immediately after birth, marking a baby’s transition from reliance on the placenta. During pregnancy, the umbilical cord acts as a lifeline, delivering oxygen and nutrients from the parent to the developing baby while also removing waste products. Once the baby is born, this connection is no longer needed. Healthcare professionals then clamp and cut the cord, which leaves a small stump attached to the baby’s belly button. This clamp helps to prevent bleeding from the three blood vessels within the cord, ensuring a safe separation.
The Natural Detachment Process
The umbilical cord stump, along with the clamp, undergoes a natural process of drying and shrinking before it detaches. This process typically occurs within one to three weeks after birth, though some stumps may fall off earlier (around 5 to 15 days). As the stump dries, its appearance changes from a shiny, yellowish-green to brown or even black, and it will shrivel. It is important to allow the stump to fall off on its own. Parents should never attempt to pull off the stump, even if it appears to be hanging by a thread, as this can cause harm.
Caring for the Umbilical Stump
Proper care of the umbilical stump is important to promote healing and prevent infection before it detaches. Keeping the stump clean and dry is a primary recommendation. Exposing the stump to air aids in the drying process. One effective method is to fold the top of the baby’s diaper down, so it sits below the stump, preventing friction and allowing air circulation. Loose-fitting clothing also supports air exposure and minimizes irritation.
Sponge baths are advised until the stump has fallen off and the area has healed, as submerging it in water should be avoided. If the stump becomes soiled with urine or stool, it can be gently cleaned with plain water and a cotton swab or washcloth, then patted dry. Older guidance suggested using rubbing alcohol, but current recommendations advise against it, as it may hinder the natural drying process.
After the Cord Detaches
Once the umbilical cord stump naturally detaches, a small wound is left behind which will become the baby’s belly button. The area may appear a little raw or have some dried blood, and it is normal to see a small amount of clear or yellowish fluid. This slight oozing is part of the healing process and is not a sign of infection. The belly button area should heal completely within a few days to about a week after detachment.
Continued cleanliness and dryness are important during this final healing phase. Parents can gently wipe away any remaining secretions or ooze with a damp washcloth or a clean cotton bud dipped in warm water, ensuring the area is then patted dry. Full tub baths are appropriate a couple of days after the stump has fallen off and the navel area has healed. Until then, sponge baths remain the preferred method for cleaning the baby.
When to Seek Medical Advice
While the umbilical cord detachment process is straightforward, certain signs warrant medical attention. Parents should contact a healthcare professional if they observe persistent redness or streaking around the stump, particularly if the skin feels warm or tender to the touch. Foul-smelling discharge, pus (thick yellow fluid), or increased bleeding from the stump are also concerning indicators. Bleeding that worsens or continues for more than a few days after detachment should be evaluated.
Other signs that suggest a need for medical consultation include the baby developing a fever, appearing unusually sleepy, irritable, or feeding poorly. If the umbilical stump has not fallen off after three to four weeks, it is advisable to consult a pediatrician. Additionally, if a moist, red lump of tissue, known as an umbilical granuloma, forms on the belly button after the stump falls off and does not resolve, medical advice should be sought.