Umbilical Cord - Bleeding
Definition
- Bleeding occurs from cord's point of separation
- The navel is also called the belly button or umbilicus
- The piece of cord that stays on the baby is called the umbilical stump
Call or Return If
- Bleeding gets worse
- Few drops of blood but lasts more than 3 days
- Your baby starts to look or act abnormal
- You think your baby needs to be seen
About This Topic
Causes
- Cord has fallen off or is getting ready to fall off
- Cord got caught on something
- Navel rubs against something, such as the diaper
After Care Advice
Overview:
- A few drops of blood are normal after the cord falls off. A small amount of bleeding can also occur when the cord catches on something.
- The diaper rubbing against the belly button may make it start up again.
- Here is some care advice that should help.
Bleeding:
- To stop bleeding, put direct pressure on the navel for 10 minutes. Use a clean cloth.
- Clean the area before, rather than after.
- Reason: This helps prevent bleeding from starting back up.
Diaper:
- Prevent the diaper from rubbing on the cord.
- Do this by folding the diaper down away from the belly button.
- You can also cut a wedge out of the diaper. Then seal the edge with tape.
What to Expect:
- The bleeding may come back a few times.
- It should only be a small smear of blood.
- The bleeding site should heal up by 2 days.
Author: Barton Schmitt MD, FAAP Copyright
Disclaimer: This health information is for educational purposes only. You the reader assume full responsibility for how you choose to use it.
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