Can the belly button come into contact with bath water after the umbilical cord falls off?

Apr 10, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Ma Yan
Introduction
The falling off of the navel usually refers to the detachment of the umbilical cord. Shortly after the umbilical cord falls off, it's generally not advisable to expose it to bath water. During the period when the umbilical cord is detaching and forming a scab, it's important to keep the area around the navel clean and hygienic, avoid repeated friction from coarse clothing, and prevent contact with water, as this could lead to umbilical cord infection. It's recommended to follow medical advice and apply iodophor, which can disinfect and kill bacteria, helping to prevent infection.

Generally speaking, "the belly button falling off" usually refers to the detachment of the umbilical cord. Shortly after the umbilical cord falls off, it should not come into contact with bath water. The detailed explanation is as follows:

During the period when the umbilical cord is detaching and forming a scab, it is essential to keep the area around the navel clean and hygienic. It is also important to avoid friction from rough clothing. Not only should bath water be avoided, but exposure to any kind of water should be prevented, as this could lead to umbilical cord infection and cause omphalitis.

It is recommended that during the period of umbilical cord detachment in infants, an iodine tincture solution be applied to the affected area as directed by a healthcare provider. This can effectively disinfect and kill bacteria, helping prevent infection. Only after the scab on the navel has completely fallen off should the area be cleaned with plain water.


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