The umbilical cord is the baby's lifeline to the pregnant person during pregnancy. But it's no longer needed once the baby is born. Within a few minutes after birth, the cord is clamped and cut close to the navel. The clamp helps stop bleeding from the blood vessels in the umbilical cord. A medicine is sometimes applied to the cord as part of a baby's first care. This may be a purple dye or another type of antiseptic. But it's now advised to keep the cord dry (dry cord care).
By the time the baby goes home from the hospital, the cord is starting to dry and wither. The clamp can be removed when the cord is completely dry. The cord usually falls off by itself in about 2 to 3 weeks. In some babies, it takes longer. Because the umbilical cord may be a place for infection to enter the baby's body, it's important to care for it correctly.
How to take care of your baby's umbilical cord
Your baby's healthcare provider will give you instructions on how to care for your baby's umbilical cord. You should:
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Keep it dry
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Expose it to air
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Give your baby sponge baths (keeping the cord dry) until it falls off
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Let your healthcare provider know if it has not fallen off by 1 month of age
Fold the baby's diaper down so the cord is not covered. Some diapers have special cutouts for the cord area. Call your baby's healthcare provider if there is:
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Bleeding from the end of the cord or the area near the skin
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Moisture on the cord, an unusual odor, or discharge from it
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Swelling, lumps, or redness of the skin around the navel
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Signs that the navel area is painful to your baby
There may be a small amount of blood when the cord falls off. Don't try to remove the cord. It will fall off on its own.
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Online Medical Reviewer: Dan Brennan MD
Online Medical Reviewer: Stacey Wojcik MBA BSN RN
Online Medical Reviewer: Tracy C. Garrett RNC-NIC BSN
Date Last Reviewed: 08/31/2023
© 2000-2026 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.
