How Do You Care For A Newborns Umbilical Cord Stump?
While most expectant parents know that the first few weeks at home with their new baby will be filled with wonder and awe, many are not prepared to deal with the somewhat unsightly umbilical cord stump still attached to their newborn. However, the umbilical cord stump is there and needs to be cared for just like all of a new baby’s needs. Caring for a newborn’s umbilical cord stump is not difficult, but the area does need proper attention to heal correctly. Avoid tub bathing until the umbilical cord stump has fallen off. Sponge bathe the baby but avoid getting the umbilical cord stump and area around the navel wet. Use soft newborn disposable diapers when diapering the baby. Fold the diaper down under the navel so that it does not cover the umbilical cord stump. Fold the baby’s shirt up so that the umbilical cord stump is exposed. This will allow the stump to be exposed to air and dry faster. The umbilical cord stump will usually fall off within two weeks of delivery. Traditionally ped
