Cord Blood Stem Cells Information

Umbilical Cord...?

My babys cord stump came off this morning...in the middle of his belly button there is this puss like gunk....and there is still red looking gunk stuck to his belly button, should i care for this with alcohol still or use warm water...or anyother suggestions?

Public Comments

1. don't use alchohol once the stump has fallen off, it will burn and open wound badly and can promote scarring. Wash with warm water and soap if necessary. A little "gunk" is normal, as is some redness. Watchout for excessive discharge or a foul odor which would indicate infection.
2. Sounds like the umbilical cord came off a little to early. I would just keep it clean with warm water and keep an eye on it. I wouldn't use alcohol because it may cause a burning sensation for your baby. Best of Luck!
3. From the link below: Virtually every belly button will have some yellow or green drainage, both before and after it falls off. It may look like pus, but it is really just mucus. You may notice some on baby’s T-shirt or diaper with every diaper change. This may go on for one or two weeks, so don’t worry. The drainage will eventually stop. For excessive oozing, your doctor can help dry up the cord by applying silver nitrate in the office. This is rarely necessary. WHEN TO WORRY The only time you need to worry is when the cord has become infected. Here is how to tell: -The drainage has a very foul odor -The skin around the cord has become very red and maybe swollen -Baby may or may not have a fever Call your doctor during regular business hours if you suspect this (there is no need to wake the doctor in the middle of the night, unless there is a fever over 101). Hope that helps!
4. just use warm water
5. I have never seen puss in a belly button unless it was infected. Alcohol is only used to dry up the cord and help it fall off. Once it is off any puss or raw looking area should not be cleaned with alcohol. I would have his belly checked for infection. It really shouldn't look like that afterwards. I work in Peds for 20 years.