Newborn facts: Navel

A newborn's umbilical cord stump and the navel need to be cleaned at each nappy change. Use calendula lotion or surgical spirits to disinfect the clamp, stump and all the crevices of the navel as the stump dries and the belly button becomes accessible. Use cotton-wool balls initially and cotton buds as the stump dries out and shrivels. The navel may have a little spotting of blood up to six weeks, but must not bleed freely. It will be a little moist in the first week to 10 days with yellow crusting, but only needs special treatment if pus forms or there is a bad smell. The cord will fall off at about 8 to 10 days, or can be cut if just hanging by a dry thread. If very moist, apply homeopathic healing powders or ointment.

By Sister Lilian

Newborn facts: Genitals

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