The cord stump looks scary to many new parents, and well-meaning family often have strong advice about it. In most healthy babies the care is simple: keep it clean and dry, and leave it alone.
Cord care: the basics
- The stump usually dries up and falls off in about 1 to 3 weeks.
- Keep it dry and exposed to air. Fold the nappy below it, and use loose clothing.
- If it gets soiled with urine or stool, clean gently with clean water, then pat it dry with a clean cloth.
- Do not pull it, even if it looks hanging by a thread. Let it fall off on its own.
- A little crusty discharge or a few drops of blood when it comes off can be normal.
Some doctors or hospitals advise an antiseptic such as chlorhexidine on the cord, especially in places where infection is more common. Use only what your doctor has told you to use.
Traditional things to avoid
Families often apply powder, oil, ghee, turmeric, ash or a cloth wrap to the stump. Doctors generally advise against putting anything on it unless they have recommended it, because these can trap moisture or carry germs into a raw wound.
When to see a doctor about the cord
- Redness or swelling of the skin around it, or red streaks spreading outwards
- Pus, or a foul smell
- Bleeding that does not stop with gentle pressure
- Fever, poor feeding or unusual sleepiness
- The stump has not fallen off after about 3 to 4 weeks
Bathing: sponge baths first
Until the cord falls off and the area has healed, many paediatricians suggest sponge baths rather than putting the baby in water. Some hospitals do allow a gentle tub bath. If your doctor has given different advice, follow that.
- Choose a warm, draught-free room and have everything ready: clean towel, nappy, clothes, a mug of water.
- Test the water with your elbow or the inside of your wrist. It should feel comfortably warm, about 37 °C. Never test with fingers alone.
- Wipe the face first with a soft damp cloth, then the neck folds, arms, hands and body. Cover the parts you are not washing with a towel.
- Wash the nappy area last, then pat all the creases dry, since moisture in folds can cause rashes.
Two or three baths a week are enough for a newborn, with a quick wipe of the face, neck and nappy area on other days. Never leave a baby alone in or near water, not even for a moment.
Eyes, ears and nose
- Eyes: wipe from the inner corner outwards with a fresh, clean cotton piece for each eye.
- Ears and nose: clean only the outside with a damp cloth. Do not put cotton buds or anything else inside.
- Kajal or surma: many families apply it for tradition. Doctors advise against it on newborns' eyes, because some products contain lead and can cause infection or irritation.
Oil massage
Oil massage is a loved ritual and a good time to bond. Ask your paediatrician what oil they prefer. Some advise against mustard oil on a newborn's delicate skin as it may irritate it. Try a small patch first and stop if the skin gets red.