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Warning-sign checks

Umbilical cord care in newborns: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Follow the emergency instructions provided by your local healthcare service.

    Seek emergency help if bleeding is heavy or does not stop with gentle pressure, your baby is difficult to wake, has trouble breathing, looks blue or grey, has a seizure, or appears severely unwell.

    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Arrange prompt, same-day medical advice if redness is spreading beyond the belly button, the skin is swollen or warm, pus is present, there is a strong foul smell, or the area appears painful.

    Also call promptly for repeated bleeding, persistent drainage, poor feeding, vomiting, or unusual sleepiness.

    A temperature of 38°C or 100.4°F or higher in a baby younger than 3 months needs urgent medical assessment.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    A tiny spot of blood when the stump separates, without ongoing bleeding or illness, can usually be discussed at routine follow-up.

    A small moist lump after separation also usually needs a routine appointment unless there are signs of infection.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Umbilical cord care in newborns. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.