How long does it take for the belly button to heal after the cord falls off?
How long does it take for the belly button to heal after the umbilical cord falls off? The skin underneath the stump may be a little red when the dried stump first falls off, but it should soon heal—usually within two weeks.
How do you treat an infected belly button stump?
Antibiotic Ointment for Pus:
- If any pus is present, use an antibiotic ointment (such as Polysporin).
- No prescription is needed.
- Put a tiny amount on the belly button.
- Do this 2 times per day after the area has been cleaned.
- Do this for 2 days. After that, use the antibiotic ointment only if you see more pus.
How do you know if umbilical cord is infected?
How to identify an umbilical cord infection
- red, swollen, warm, or tender skin around the cord.
- pus (a yellow-greenish liquid) oozing from the skin around the cord.
- a bad smell coming from the cord.
- fever.
- a fussy, uncomfortable, or very sleepy baby.
What clothes should baby wear before umbilical cord falls off?
In warm weather, have your baby wear just a diaper and loose T-shirt to let air circulate and speed the drying process. Avoid dressing your baby in bodysuit-style undershirts until the cord has fallen off. Clean gently. Give sponge baths instead of tub baths, being sure to keep the cord dry.
Can I put antibiotic ointment in my belly button?
Share on Pinterest Antibiotic and antifungal ointments or creams may be used to treat belly button discharge. Bacterial infections are usually treated with antibiotic ointments or creams. Fungal or yeast infections are also typically treated with antifungal powders or creams.
How do I keep my umbilical cord dry?
Taking care of the stump
- Keep the stump dry. Parents were once instructed to swab the stump with rubbing alcohol after every diaper change.
- Stick with sponge baths. While there’s no harm in getting the stump wet, sponge baths might make it easier to keep the stump dry.
- Let the stump fall off on its own.
