Caring for Your Baby's Umbilical Cord
The umbilical cord is essential for your baby's health, even after birth. Proper care ensures it heals safely and avoids infection. Here's how:
How to Clean the Umbilical Cord:
1. Use only warm water with a cotton swab or a freshly washed face cloth.
2. Clean around the stump thoroughly but gently, ensuring all sides are addressed.
3. Let it air dry - avoid using creams, ointments, or covering it with a diaper.
Signs of Infection:
Look out for redness, swelling, pus, bad smells, or if it’s painful to touch. These could be signs of infection, which needs immediate medical attention.
When the stump dries (usually within 7–10 days), it will fall off naturally. Dispose of it afterward.
For more details or help, visit i-MED africa.
