Is umbilical cord supposed to smell?

It is normal for the belly button to look a bit mucky or to have a red spot where the cord used to be. It can also be smelly and have some clear, sticky or brownish ooze that might leave a stain on your baby’s nappy or clothes. This is part of the healing process, which may take up to seven days to mend completely.

What does a smelly umbilical cord mean?

The normal bacteria in the area helps the cord decay and separate, typically within a week or two. If the cord stump gets murky, brown, gooey, and smells like decaying flesh, just know it’s because it IS decaying flesh – and it smells horrid. Wipe away the grossness, keep it dry, and it’ll soon fall off.

Is it normal for a drying umbilical cord to smell?

While the stump is drying up and just after it falls off, you might notice some oozing around baby’s belly button. This might be clear, sticky or brownish, and it might leave a mark on your baby’s clothes or nappy. It might also smell a little. This is part of the healing process.

How do you clean a smelly umbilical cord?

You don’t need to sponge bathe your baby every day; two or three times a week is usually enough. You may wish to use sponge bath time to gently clean the umbilical cord stump as well. clothes.

When should I be concerned about the umbilical cord?

Much like a scab, the cord stump might bleed a little when it falls off. However, contact your baby’s health care provider if the umbilical area oozes pus, the surrounding skin becomes red and swollen, or the area develops a pink moist bump. These could be signs of an umbilical cord infection.

How do you keep the umbilical cord clean?

Taking care of the stump

1. Keep the stump dry. Parents were once instructed to swab the stump with rubbing alcohol after every diaper change.
2. Stick with sponge baths. While there’s no harm in getting the stump wet, sponge baths might make it easier to keep the stump dry.
3. Let the stump fall off on its own.

What should I do if my baby’s belly button stinks?

It’s unlikely your baby’s umbilical cord stump will become infected, but if you notice any of these signs of an infected umbilical cord, contact your baby’s healthcare provider. These are some of the signs of an infected umbilical cord: A smelly yellow discharge from the stump area.

How do you fix a smelly belly button?

Dip your finger or a soft washcloth in a solution of saltwater (about a teaspoon of table salt in a cup of warm water) and gently massage the inside of your navel. This should loosen stubborn germs that can cause odor. Then rinse with plain water and pat it dry.

How do you stop your belly button from smelling?

Using warm water and mild soap, use a washcloth to gently clean around and just inside the belly button. Rinse with clean, warm water and dry with a towel to make sure that all water has been removed from the belly button. Showering or bathing regularly can help to prevent skin problems and odor.