What to do if the umbilical cord is not cleanly removed

The tube that connects the fetus and placenta in mammals is called the umbilical cord. The nutrients needed by the fetus every day and the waste discharged can be exchanged with the mother through the umbilical cord, allowing the fetus to thrive. After the fetus is born, the doctor will cut off the umbilical cord connected to the baby. Generally, after a few hours, the umbilical cord will gradually turn black and dry, and fall off. So, what should we do if the umbilical cord does not fall off cleanly?

What should I do if the umbilical cord is not cleanly removed?

The umbilical cord will fall off on its own some time after the baby is born. If the umbilical cord does not fall off completely, you can continue to observe for a while. Because each baby's physical condition is different, the time when the umbilical cord falls off can also be noticed. As long as there are no symptoms of inflammation, there is no need to worry too much.

If the umbilical cord of a newborn has not fallen off or has not fallen off completely after more than 7 days of birth, it may be caused by local inflammation or tissue hyperplasia.

If the umbilical cord gradually turns dry and black, parents should carefully observe the condition of the newborn's umbilical cord. If there are no signs of infection in the umbilical cord, or if there are symptoms of redness, swelling, or suppuration, there is no need to worry too much. You can wipe the umbilical cord area with 75% alcohol to help the umbilical cord fall off as soon as possible. However, if there is local redness, swelling or suppuration, it should be cleaned with hydrogen peroxide first and then wiped with 75% alcohol. If the infection is serious, accompanied by a large amount of fluid oozing from the umbilical cord, and even with a foul odor, it should be taken seriously and the newborn should be taken to the hospital for treatment immediately to avoid serious adverse consequences and endanger the life of the newborn.

Parents must be careful and pay attention to hygiene in the care of the newborn's umbilical cord. They should wash their hands before daily care and use iodine cotton balls to wipe the newborn. Also, pay attention to keeping the skin near the umbilical cord dry and clean before the umbilical cord falls off. Be careful not to get wet when bathing. As long as the above points of umbilical cord care are done well, there will be no problem.