Umbilical Cord, Delayed Separation
When will the cord fall off?
Although most umbilical cords fall off between 10 and 14
days of age, an occasional cord may stay 3 weeks. Cords can
also hang by a strand of tissue for 2 or 3 days.
Eventually, they all fall off by themselves, so be patient.
How can I take care of my child?
The usual advice is to clean the base of the cord (where it
attaches to the skin) with rubbing alcohol twice a day. To
do this properly, you must lift the cord stump away from the
body surface. Recent studies showed that cords fall off 2
days earlier if allowed to heal naturally without any
alcohol. Therefore if the cord is still attached at 2 weeks
of age, stop using alcohol. Prior to that, do use alcohol to
prevent cord infections. Also help the cord dry faster by
keeping the diaper folded below it. If you are using
disposable diapers, you can cut a wedge out of the diaper
with scissors so the cord is not covered.
When should I call my health care provider?
Call during office hours if:
- The cord is still attached after 3 weeks.
- You have other concerns or questions.
Written by B.D. Schmitt, M.D., author of "Your Child's Health," Bantam Books.
This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to
change as new health information becomes available. The
information is intended to inform and educate and is not a
replacement for medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or
treatment by a healthcare professional.
Copyright © 2005 McKesson Corporation and/or one of its subsidiaries. All Rights Reserved.
This
information is approved and/or reviewed by U-M Health System providers
but it is not a tool for self-diagnosis or a substitute for medical
treatment. You should speak to your physician or make
an appointment to be seen if you have questions or concerns about
this information or your medical condition.