Umbilical Cord Stump Care: A Comprehensive Guide for New Parents

Here are some tips on how to care for your umbilical cord stump:

- Keep the stump dry.

- Avoid touching or pulling on it.

- Cleanse the area around the stump with soap and water once a day.

- Let it fall off on its own. This usually happens within 1 to 3 weeks.

- Call your doctor if the stump does not fall off after 1 month.

- If the umbilical stump does not fall off after 1 month, call your doctor. They will likely need to remove it surgically.

Additional tips:

- To prevent infection, it is important to wash your hands before and after touching the umbilical cord stump.

- If the stump bleeds or oozes, apply a small amount of antibiotic ointment to the area and cover it with a sterile bandage.

- If you have any concerns about the way your umbilical cord stump is healing, talk to your doctor.