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For disinfecting a newborn's umbilical cord, should iodophor or alcohol be used?

Jan 24, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhou Xiaofeng
Introduction
In general, povidone-iodine is used to disinfect the umbilical cord of newborns. If povidone-iodine is required, it is recommended to consult a physician first. Povidone-iodine is a relatively mild disinfectant and is less irritating to a newborn's skin. It is effective in killing various microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Additionally, due to its dark color, povidone-iodine clearly marks the disinfected area.

Generally, povidone-iodine is used for disinfecting the umbilical cord of newborns. If povidone-iodine is to be used, it is recommended to consult a physician first. Detailed explanations are as follows:

Povidone-iodine is a relatively mild disinfectant and is less irritating to a newborn's skin. It can effectively kill various microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi, and thus provides good disinfection results. Additionally, povidone-iodine has a dark color that clearly indicates the disinfected area, making it easier to observe whether the disinfection is thorough. If parents decide to use povidone-iodine for disinfection, it is recommended to disinfect in a spiral motion starting from the base of the umbilical cord and moving outward, ensuring a sufficient disinfection area.

Alcohol acts quickly as a disinfectant and evaporates rapidly, leaving minimal residue. However, it is more irritating and may cause some pain and discomfort to a newborn's skin, potentially leading to crying. If there is bleeding or pus discharge from the umbilical cord area, alcohol may intensify the pain. Therefore, alcohol is not recommended for umbilical cord disinfection in newborns.

During umbilical cord disinfection, it is important to keep the skin around the umbilical cord clean and dry, avoiding contamination from urine, feces, or other sources. Protective items such as umbilical cord covers can be used to protect the umbilical area, especially during bathing.

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How often should I disinfect with povidone-iodine?
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Why can't povidone-iodine be used on broken skin?
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Which has better disinfecting effects, iodophor or alcohol?
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Are Povidone-iodine and Iodophor the same thing?
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What are the symptoms of povidone-iodine allergy?
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