How to Clean a Newborn's Umbilicus
At first glance, it may look a little intimidating, but the umbilicus stump that remains after a baby’s birth is a normal part of a newborn’s physical make-up. Special care should be taken place to clean the delicate area and can be easily done following a simple routine.
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Instructions
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Use a cotton-tip dipped in alcohol or alcohol pad to swab the area once or twice a day to curtail the odor and appearance which is common with a newborn’s umbilicus. Be aware that some practitioners now recommend forgoing this time-honored tradition and say to let the area completely air dry and heal on its own. (Consult your pediatrician for guidance.) Avoid giving your baby a tub bath until after the stump falls off, which is usually 10 to 12 days after birth. Never pull at a stump, even when it’s barely hanging on.
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Fold the baby’s diaper below this area to avoid it being exposed to urine but to allow it to air. It is optional to purchase special newborn diapers that have a notch cut out to prevent direct contact with the umbilicus. Dress your child in a loose-fitting t-shirt while the area dries and heals.
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Watch for signs of infection that may include fever, swelling or redness at the navel area, pus at the base of the stump. Most importantly, keep the area clean and dry to promote healing and to prevent infection.
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