👶 Care & hygiene · Birth until the stump falls off and heals
🩺 Caring for the umbilical cord
The stump usually dries, darkens and falls off in the first few weeks, though timing varies. Keep it clean and dry and follow your maternity team's specific instructions.
What you'll need
- Soap and water for handwashing.
- Clean gauze or a soft clean cloth.
- Clean water if the stump becomes soiled.
Daily cord care
1. Wash and check
Wash your hands before touching the area. Look for spreading redness, swelling, discharge or an unpleasant smell.
2. Clean only when needed
A clean stump does not need routine wet cleaning. If urine or stool gets on it, gently clean with water and mild soap if needed, then rinse and pat dry.
3. Keep it exposed to air
Fold the diaper below the stump and use loose clothing. Avoid wrapping the belly or covering the stump with a dressing unless your clinician directs it.
4. Let it separate naturally
Do not pull, even when it is barely attached. A small spot of blood can occur as it separates; persistent bleeding needs assessment.
5. Get help for warning signs
Seek prompt medical care for redness spreading onto the belly, pus, foul smell, poor feeding or unusual sleepiness. A temperature of 38°C or higher under 3 months needs urgent assessment. Ask your maternity team or barangay health centre if separation or healing seems delayed.
Classic mistakes
- ❌ Applying household remedies Do not apply oils, herbs, powders, alcohol or other substances. Use a cord antiseptic only when specifically prescribed or supplied with clinical instructions.
- ❌ Keeping the stump damp Change wet diapers promptly and dry the area if it gets wet. Do not scrub or pick at it.
A local detail, or your own experience with this guide? Write to the team
Same topic
- Paternity Leave Act
- Maternity leave allocation
- Birth registration
- Family Code
- Emergency services
- Newborn screening
- Infant feeding
When in doubt, contact your doctor or midwife. For a life-threatening emergency, call 911.