What should I do if my newborn’s umbilical cord stump is bleeding slightly?
May 24, 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 short stump attached to the baby’s abdomen to protect the navel. If bleeding occurs at the umbilical site, the following steps should be taken:
Most newborns experience no pain when umbilical bleeding occurs; the blood typically originates from residual blood stored within the umbilical cord stump. Upon noticing such bleeding, parents may gently clean the area using a cotton swab dipped in iodophor (povidone-iodine). While cleaning, ensure gentle but thorough wiping into the depth of the umbilical depression to help prevent infection.
After thoroughly cleaning away the blood, cover the umbilical stump with sterile gauze. This helps prevent friction or irritation from clothing or diapers, which could delay healing. Alternatively, an umbilical cord protector (umbilical band) may also be used to safeguard the area.
If any abnormal signs appear—such as persistent or heavy bleeding, foul odor, swelling, redness extending beyond the umbilical area, or purulent discharge—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 monitor the site closely for any changes.
