3 Steps for Baby Umbilical Cord Care: A Simple Guide for Moms and Babies
For new parents, many things are first-time experiences, especially when it comes to newborn care, which can feel confusing at first. After the baby is born, umbilical cord care is one of the tasks that parents need to handle with care. Want to know how to do it properly? Let GENNIE’S guide you through the details below.
Baby Umbilical Cord Care Tips: Follow These 3 Steps to Help Moms and Babies Feel at Ease
When a baby is just born, “umbilical cord care” is a very important part of newborn care. Parents who are unfamiliar with it may feel nervous or overwhelmed if they notice unusual conditions around the umbilical cord. Below, we will introduce some useful facts about the umbilical cord and practical care tips for new parents.
Delay Cutting the Umbilical Cord and Wait at Least 30–60 Seconds
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), citing earlier obstetric studies, suggested that doctors should not cut the umbilical cord of a healthy newborn too quickly, and should wait at least 30–60 seconds. This may help deliver oxygen-rich cord blood to the newborn, which can provide many benefits for the baby’s health. Some studies also indicate that allowing more time for cord blood to flow back to the baby may support the baby’s brain development. Expecting moms may consult their delivery doctor before giving birth to confirm whether delayed cord clamping is suitable, allowing precious cord blood to flow back into the baby’s body.
Keep It Dry and Help Reduce the Risk of Bacterial Infection or Inflammation
In general, it is recommended to keep the area away from water, and soaking the baby in a bath during this period is not advised. The area should be kept dry and well-ventilated. When putting on a diaper, parents can fold down the front abdominal area slightly to avoid direct contact between the diaper and the belly button. When dressing baby in gauze tops, butterfly shirts, or other clothing, breathable styles are recommended. Parents should also check the umbilical cord regularly and help keep the area ventilated.
Basic Care for Bleeding or Yellowish Fluid
When the umbilical cord is about to fall off, parents may notice an unknown yellowish fluid around the belly button. There is no need to be overly nervous. You can use a small piece of gauze with medical alcohol and gently disinfect the area using small tweezers. In addition, when the umbilical cord falls off, slight bleeding may also occur. Parents can gently press the umbilical cord area with clean gauze to help stop the bleeding, then use medical alcohol for disinfection to help reduce the risk of infection.
Pay Attention to 2 Newborn Care Situations! Seek Medical Attention Promptly if Anything Seems Abnormal!
Redness, Swelling, Pus, or Bleeding That Is Difficult to Stop Around the Umbilical Cord
When the umbilical cord falls off, some babies may experience slight bleeding or yellowish fluid, so parents do not need to worry too much. However, if the baby has bleeding that is difficult to stop, redness or swelling around the umbilical cord, continuous crying, or even reduced appetite and difficulty drinking milk, medical attention should be sought promptly. This may be related to umbilical cord inflammation. If it is not handled carefully and in time, bacteria may spread along the blood vessels and enter the baby’s body, leading to complications. Therefore, if the above conditions are noticed, it is recommended to seek medical attention immediately to avoid potential risks.
After the Umbilical Cord Falls Off, There Is Still Odorous Fluid or a Small Growth Appears
After the umbilical cord has completely fallen off, if the belly button continues to secrete unknown fluid with an odor for several weeks, or if a small lump or tissue-like growth appears around the umbilical cord area, it may be related to an umbilical granuloma, umbilical polyp, or an incomplete closure between the intestine and umbilical area. It is recommended to consult a doctor and seek professional assistance.
Leave Newborn Care to Professional Doctors, and Leave Postpartum Nursing Bras to GENNIE’S!
After carrying the baby for 10 months, mom has finally given birth to an adorable little one and entered a brand-new stage of parenthood. For newborn care, in addition to consulting professional obstetricians and gynecologists, parents can also sign up for newborn care-related mom classes to hear advice from experts.
After the baby is born, moms begin learning newborn care skills while also preparing to enter the next stage of parenting — breastfeeding. For moms during the breastfeeding period, a comfortable and easy-to-wear nursing bra is essential. It reduces the pressure often caused by regular underwire bras and brings a more comfortable, refreshing wearing experience. Come visit GENNIE’S and shop nursing bras to help moms enjoy a smoother breastfeeding journey!
Reference Sources:
1.How to Care for a Baby’s Umbilical Cord? Seek Medical Attention Quickly in These 2 Situations
2.Waiting 30 More Seconds Before Cutting the Umbilical Cord May Benefit Newborn Health and Development
