How to Treat an Infant's Infected Navel

Caring for a newborn infant's navel is usually simple. The remnant of the umbilical cord usually dries up and falls off with no problem. But in some cases the navel area can become infected. When this happens there may be a discharge of pus from the belly button area as well as an offensive odor. It is best to contact your pediatrician if this occurs since an antibiotic may be necessary. But there are also a few things you can do to properly care for the navel area at home.

Instructions

How to Care for an Infant's Infected Navel Area

• 1

  Keep the area clean and dry. Fold the diaper down to expose the area to air and prevent the diaper from causing irritation to the area.

• 2

  Do not immerse the infant in water until the umbilical cord has completely dried up and fallen off. Give the baby sponge baths instead.

• 3

  Clean the infected navel area 3 to 4 times daily with alcohol to aid healing and dry up the cord remnant.