Baby navel care should be done at least 3 times a day, always after bathing and in diaper changes, so that the baby's navel heals faster and does not become infected.
The umbilical cord of the baby usually falls in 7 to 15 days and it is normal for it to get smaller, black and dry until it falls. To take care of the little baby's beak is due to:
- Put the alcohol 70º on the gauze or swab;
- Lower the diaper so that the navel is off;
- Clean the navel with the gauze or swab in a circular motion.
After passing the swab once, you should throw it away and use a new swab so the navel does not infect. It is normal for the baby to cry while cleaning the navel, but it is not because of the pain, but because the alcohol is cold.
It is not recommended to put bands, kerchiefs or any other garment on top of the little baby's chin because this increases the risk of infection and in addition, the diaper should be folded and placed under the navel.
How to Take Care of Your Baby's Navel After It Falls
After the umbilical cord falls, the baby's navel should continue to be cleaned for at least 10 days. However, saline should be used instead of alcohol at 70 degrees.
When to go to the pediatrician
Parents should consult their pediatrician when:
- The baby's navel is bleeding;
- The baby's navel is infected, that is, the region around the umbilical cord is very red, with a very strong odor or pus coming out;
- The baby's navel is taking more than 21 days to fall.
In these situations, the pediatrician evaluates the baby's navel and guides the appropriate treatment, which may include the use of antibiotics if the navel is infected, for example.
