Chapter 4 Umbilical Cord Care | A First Time Mom's Guide to Motherhood | NursElet

Rupal Asodaria keepsake umbilical cord

What is Umbilical Cord?

In placental mammals, the umbilical cord is a conduit between the developing embryo or fetus and the placenta. During prenatal development, the umbilical cord is physiologically and genetically part of the fetus and normally contains two arteries and one vein, buried within Wharton's jelly. The umbilical vein supplies the fetus with oxygenated, nutrient-rich blood from the placenta. Conversely, the fetal heart pumps low oxygen containing blood, nutrient-depleted blood through the umbilical arteries back to the placenta.

Via Wikipedia

Cleaning Umbilical Cord:

  • Umbilical cord stump dries and drops off within a week of birth. Clean this area daily to avoid infection.
  • Gently wipe the skin creases around the stump with baby wipe.
  • Continue cleaning in the same way after stump has separated so the area heals quickly.

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Umbilical cord stump dries and drops off within a week of birth. Clean this area daily to avoid infection.

Avoid Infection:

  • Base appears red or swollen
  • Continues to bleed
  • Oozes yellowish or white pus
  • Produces a foul smelling discharge
  • Seems painful to your baby

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When Should I call Baby’s Pediatrician?

If you notice any redness or other signs of infection, ask your pediatrician for advice.  

Some parents save umbilical cord as keepsake. Did you save your baby's umbilical cord?



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