When the umbilical cord is clamped and cut, the tissue that is left will start to die off

When the umbilical cord is clamped and cut, the tissue that is left will start to die off. There are no nerves in the cord, so cutting it isn't painful for you or the baby. . Between approximately 5 and 15 days after your baby is born, the umbilical stump will dry out, turn black and drop off. After the stump comes off, it usually takes a further 7 to 10 days for the belly button to heal completely. Your baby may have a slight 'outie' belly button for a few months before flattening. . Until the stump drops off and the belly button is completely healed, it's important to keep the area clean and dry, to prevent infection. Here is some general guidance: . If you bathe baby before the stump falls off, ensure you pat dry around the stump properly after. . Use cotton wool or a q-tip and cooled boiled water to clean gently around the stump each day. . No evidence to show powders or any other lotions & potions help to heal the area quicker or prevent infection. . You may notice a slight smell as the stump turns black. If the smell becomes over powering however, you may want to seek advice from your gp or midwife. As the stump heals, it may look a little oozy, especially if accidentally knocked. You may also notice brown/yellow stains on baby's clothing on occasion. If the discharge is persistant, blood stained or really odourous, seek advice from your gp or midwife . Roll the nappy under the stump or have it covering it, whatever works best for you. . Occasionally the area can become infected but it's not common. The main sign is inflamed red skin on the area of the abdomen around the stump and/or a temperature of 37.6 or more. . Keeping the area clean and dry as well as minimal touching will help promote natural drying & healing.