A newborn's umbilical cord only needs a few things for proper care:
🤍 Keep it dry as much as you can.
🤍 Avoid submerging baby in bath water until the cord falls off. Stick to washrag bathing.
🤍 Fold the diaper down so it doesn't cover the cord.
🤍 Don't pick at it. This can introduce infection.
The cord will dry up and fall off in 1-2 weeks on its own, possibly with a drop or two of blood. It can be smelly. This is normal.
Signs of infection:
🚩Baby cries if the cord is touched.
🚩The cord oozes pus.
🚩Reddening around the cord stump.
🚩Swollen naval area.
Give your pediatrician a call if your baby experiences signs of infection.
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