Is this your child's symptom?
- Umbilical cord or navel questions about newborns
- The navel is also called the belly button or umbilicus
Symptoms
- Umbilicus (navel) has a cloudy discharge or even some dried pus on the surface
- Bleeding occurs from cord's point of separation
- Separation of cord is delayed past 3 weeks
Omphalitis: Serious Complication
- Definition. Bacterial infection of the umbilical stump with spread to the skin around it. It's a medical emergency.
- How Often. 1 out of 200 newborns.
- Symptoms. Redness spreads around the navel. The area may be tender, swollen and have a foul odor.
Umbilical Granuloma: Minor Complication
- Definition. Small round growth in center of navel after the cord falls off. It's red. Covered with clear mucus. Not dry like normal skin.
- How Often. 1 out of 500 newborns.
- Outcome. Usually grows in size if not treated. Can become an entry point for umbilical infections.
- Treatment. Easily treated in the doctor's office by putting on a chemical called silver nitrate.
Dry Cord Care or Alcohol Cord Care
- The AAP and ACOG both advise dry cord care (natural drying). (Guidelines for Perinatal Care, 2012). It has become common practice in US hospitals.
- The book advises against using alcohol for routine umbilical cord care.
- Alcohol cord care is advised in less developed countries with high infection rates.
When to Call for Umbilical Cord Symptoms
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