Is it normal for there to be a small hole after the belly button falls off?
May 17, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Li Feng
Introduction
The falling off of the navel usually refers to the detachment of the umbilical cord. It is normal for a small hole to remain after the umbilical cord falls off. However, if there is local pus formation or infection, this is abnormal. The specific analysis is as follows: When newborns are born, the umbilical cord at the site has not completely detached. Over time, after the umbilical cord falls off, the local lumen may not have fully closed, resulting in a small hole, which is considered a normal condition.
Loss of the belly button usually refers to the脱落 of the umbilical cord. It is generally normal for a small hole to remain after the umbilical cord falls off. However, if there is local pus formation or infection, this is considered abnormal. Detailed explanations are as follows:
1. Normal situation
In most newborns, the umbilical cord has not completely detached at birth. Over time, as the cord falls off, the underlying tissue cavity may not be fully closed, resulting in a small hole. This is considered normal and requires only routine local care without any special treatment.
2. Abnormal situation
If, after the umbilical cord falls off, hygiene and protection of the area are neglected—causing the wound to be exposed to the environment—local infection may occur, triggering an inflammatory response and leading to wound formation. This is considered abnormal and requires prompt disinfection. The area can be cleaned with iodine solution or alcohol.
It is recommended to closely monitor the condition of the navel after the umbilical cord falls off to prevent infection by pathogenic bacteria that could harm the infant's health. If the umbilical cord does not fall off within a prolonged period, medical attention should be sought promptly and proper management should be carried out under a doctor’s guidance.
