Routine Umbilical Cord Care

Simple care is safe care.

After birth, the umbilical cord is clamped and cut, leaving behind a small stump. This stump dries, shrivels, and naturally falls off within 5–15 days. Proper care helps prevent infection and ensures smooth healing.

Quick Takeaway

✔ Keep it clean

✔ Keep it dry

✔ Keep it uncovered

✔ No oils or home remedies

✔ Watch for redness or foul smell

Essential Care Practices 🧼

• Keep the cord clean and dry
• Leave the stump exposed to air (no dressing)
• Fold diaper below the stump to prevent urine/stool contamination
• Natural drying and separation usually occurs within 5-15 days

Do’s ✅

• Clean with sterile water if soiled
• Wash hands before handling the cord
• Allow air circulation around the stump
• Monitor for signs of infection
• Normal cord separation should occur within 2 weeks

Don’ts ❌

• No application of traditional substances
• Avoid covering with bandages
• Don’t pull on the stump
• No routine application of antiseptics in clean home deliveries
• Avoid getting the area excessively wet during bathing

Warning Signs to Watch 🚨

• Redness around base
• Foul smell
• Pus discharge
• Bleeding
• Delayed separation (>2 weeks)

When to Seek Medical Care 🏥

Immediate medical attention if:

• Signs of infection present
• Excessive bleeding
• Unusual discharge
• Delayed separation beyond 3 weeks