What should I do if my newborn’s umbilical cord stump is bleeding slightly?
Apr 18, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Weiling
Introduction
If a newborn experiences umbilical bleeding, parents may use a cotton swab dipped in iodophor to gently clean away the blood. While cleaning, it is important to gently wipe into the depths of the umbilical area to help prevent infection. After thoroughly removing the blood, cover the newborn’s umbilicus with sterile gauze. This helps protect the umbilical stump from friction or irritation caused by clothing or diapers, thereby supporting proper healing.
Under normal circumstances, the umbilical cord connecting the newborn to the mother is clamped and cut shortly after birth, leaving a small stump attached to the baby’s navel (umbilicus) for protection. If bleeding occurs at the umbilical site, the following steps should be taken:
Most newborns do not experience pain when the umbilical stump bleeds; the blood typically originates from residual blood stored within the cord tissue. Upon noticing such bleeding, parents may gently clean the area using a cotton swab dipped in iodophor (povidone-iodine solution). While cleaning, ensure gentle but thorough wiping into the depths of the umbilical depression to help prevent infection.
After thoroughly cleaning away the blood, cover the umbilical stump with sterile gauze. This helps protect the stump from friction or irritation caused by clothing or diapers, thereby supporting proper healing. Alternatively, an umbilical cord protector (umbilical band) may also be used.
If any abnormal signs appear—such as increased redness, swelling, pus-like discharge, foul odor, or persistent bleeding—parents should refrain from attempting self-treatment and seek immediate medical attention. A healthcare professional will assess and manage the condition appropriately; if infection is present, topical or systemic treatment may be prescribed. Thereafter, parents should ensure the umbilical area remains dry and free from water exposure, maintain strict hygiene, and closely monitor the site for any changes.
