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This article is for general information only and does not replace medical advice. If in doubt, contact your paediatrician or midwife.

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Umbilical Infection (Omphalitis) in Newborns

The umbilical stump normally falls off within 7-14 days after birth. Proper care during this time is important to prevent an umbilical infection (omphalitis). A little moisture or slight odour is normal — but redness, pus, and swelling must be evaluated by a doctor immediately.

Possible Causes

  • 1Bacterial infection (staphylococci, streptococci) from inadequate hygiene
  • 2Moisture at the navel (nappy too high, wet compresses)
  • 3Premature or forceful removal of the umbilical stump
  • 4Contaminated objects at the navel (dirty hands, unclean clothing)

What You Can Do

  • Keep the navel dry: let it air dry, fold the nappy below the stump
  • Wash hands before every cord care session
  • Clean the navel only with water and sterile gauze — NO disinfectants or alcohol
  • Do NOT pull off the stump — it falls off on its own
  • For infection: antibiotic treatment from the paediatrician (topical or systemic)

When to See a Doctor

  • Redness SPREADING around the navel (more than 2 cm) → see doctor IMMEDIATELY
  • Purulent or foul-smelling discharge from the navel
  • Swelling or hardening of abdominal skin around the navel
  • Baby has a fever (above 38°C) or seems unwell
  • Umbilical stump bleeds heavily or won't stop bleeding
  • Stump hasn't fallen off after 3 weeks

Age-Specific Notes

Day 1-3: Cord clamp still on, stump drying slowly. Day 5-7: Stump becomes darker and harder — normal. Day 7-14: Stump falls off, small wound may weep slightly or bleed minimally. Day 14-21: Navel should be fully healed. AFTER falling off: An umbilical granuloma (small, moist, red nodule) can occur and needs cauterisation by the paediatrician — harmless.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bathe my baby while the stump hasn't fallen off?
Best to do sponge baths (top and tail) until the navel has completely fallen off and healed. Brief baths are possible but carefully pat the navel dry afterwards. Avoid submerging the navel.
What is an umbilical granuloma?
An umbilical granuloma is a small, moist, red nodule that can form after the stump falls off. It's harmless but often doesn't heal on its own. The paediatrician can cauterise it with silver nitrate — a painless, brief procedure.
How do I tell the difference between normal healing and infection?
NORMAL: Slight weeping, minimal bleeding, mild odour. INFECTION: Redness that spreads (not just at the stump), purulent/foul-smelling discharge, swollen navel, baby has fever or feeds poorly. When in doubt, see the paediatrician — one visit too many is always better.

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This article is for general information only. It does not replace individual medical advice. If you have concerns, contact your paediatrician, midwife, or call emergency services.