Understanding how to care for a baby’s umbilical cord is crucial, as it is a small “bridge” following their birth. The fetus receives nutrition from the mother through the umbilical cord, and after birth, this life-connecting bond is tied off and eventually cut, leaving a bluish-purple stump. Over time, the color of the stump will gradually change, from bluish-purple to brownish-white, until it dries, shrinks, and falls off, usually within 1 to 2 weeks after birth. The area where it falls off may initially appear slightly red and moist, but will completely heal within a few days, forming the familiar belly button.
To ensure the baby’s health during this period, parents should follow these care principles:
1. Keep it dry: Be especially careful while bathing, avoiding contact with water at the base of the cord. If it accidentally gets wet, use a clean cotton swab to gently absorb the moisture before providing care. 2. Avoid friction: Choose the appropriate diaper size to prevent the edges from pressing against the base of the cord, reducing friction during movement, and preventing the area from becoming red or injured. 3. Prevent infection: Do not use any oily skin care products at the base of the cord, as this may hinder its drying or lead to infection.
Caring for the umbilical cord is divided into two stages: before and after the cord falls off. Before the cord falls off, particular attention must be paid to disinfection to prevent bacterial invasion. Typically, the bandage should be removed within 24 hours after birth, and the base of the cord should be cleaned daily with a cotton ball soaked in 75% alcohol to remove secretions and keep it clean and dry. At the same time, frequently change diapers to avoid contamination. Observe for any bleeding; if there are no abnormalities, simply wait patiently for it to fall off naturally.
Throughout the care process, maintaining local cleanliness and dryness is key, avoiding direct diaper coverage over the belly button to prevent urine from seeping in. Careful attention can effectively promote the healthy recovery of the baby’s umbilical area.
