After birth how to treat the umbilical cord
Normally the umbilical cord detaches within 7/15 days of the birth of the newborn. In the meantime, however, it should be kept as dry as possible to facilitate the fall.
In fact, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics, the cord must be well protected with breathable covers and, if necessary, from time to time it must be lightly cleaned with purified water or a chlorinated solution or simply water and soap. Disinfectants and antibacterial solutions must be absolutely avoided as they could be harmful to the small as well as favouring bacterial strains and the slowing down of the detachment itself.
So what do we do about it?
If everything goes as it should, the umbilical cord residue will fall without realizing it. But before that, when possible, get the cord to air out. That's because the air helps it dry and dry.
However, when your baby needs to be dressed, be sure to protect the part with a well-dried gauze. If possible, a breathable cotton gauze.
In addition, the gauze must be changed at least 3 times a day. And if the umbilical cord gets dirty due to some secretion, it can be gently cleaned with water or a chlorinated solution. Then before you close it all up, always make sure it's dry.
Care and paediatrician
The umbilical cord must never emit any kind of odour. If this is the case, you should call your child's paediatrician immediately. The paediatrician must also be informed if there is a redness or in the presence of yellowish or blood secretions. Also, call your paediatrician if your newborn cries when you touch it and if the stump of the umbilical cord has not fallen within 15 days after the birth of the baby.
How to bathe?
Generally, a bath by immersion should be avoided until the umbilical cord stump has fallen and the scar is perfectly closed and dry. This avoids slowing down the fall of the cord as well as the settlement of some germs inside it.
Lucia Franco
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