Essential skills for new mothers
The Umbilical Cord.
It is important to properly care for the umbilical cord of a newborn to prevent infection and promote healing. The umbilical cord usually falls off within one to three weeks after birth. Here are some steps you can take to care of the umbilical cord:
Keep the area clean:
Gently clean the area around the umbilical cord with a damp cloth or cotton swab, using water and mild soap. Be sure to dry the area thoroughly.
Don’t soak the cord:
Avoid giving your baby a bath or letting the umbilical cord come into contact with water until it has fallen off on its own. This can help prevent infection.
Keep the cord dry:
It is generally recommended to avoid letting the umbilical cord come into contact with water until it has separated from the baby and fallen off on its own. This typically occurs within a few weeks after birth. Until the umbilical cord falls off, it is essential to keep it clean and dry to prevent infection. If the umbilical cord comes into contact with water, it should be dried off immediately to prevent moisture from accumulating on the cord and potentially leading to infection.
Don’t handle the cord too much:
Try to avoid handling the umbilical cord too much, as this can cause irritation and delay healing.
Contact your healthcare provider:
If you notice any signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or discharge, or if the umbilical cord does not fall off after a few weeks, contact your healthcare provider for further advice.
It is important to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions for caring for the umbilical cord, as every baby is different and may have unique needs.