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What is the Umbilical Cord? The umbilical cord is the lifeline between mother and child during pregnancy. Through the umbilical cord nutrients, oxygen and waste are exchanged with the mother. The blood of the baby does not mix with the mother’s blood. However, harmful substances can reach the baby’s system through the umbilical cord. Upon delivery, the umbilical cord will be cut. A medication will be applied to the stump, and it may be purple in color. Within a few days of birth, the cord will start to dry out and wither away. The umbilical cord stump will usually fall off on its own with two weeks. How to Care for the Umbilical Cord Stump The umbilical cord stump should always be kept above the baby’s diaper. The diaper can be folded down at the top to ensure it does not touch or tug on the cord. Never pull on--or try to speed along the removal of-- the stump. Many physicians advise that alcohol be applied to the cord during routine diaper changes, others only recommend the use of warm water. Talk to your child’s pediatrician to see what method is preferred. Contact your baby’s pediatrician if you notice bleeding, pus, or if there is swelling or bulging around the naval. Your child may need to be seen by their pediatrician if their umbilical cord stump has not fallen off by three weeks of age. Should I Save My Baby’s Umbilical Cord Blood? Parents have the option of banking their child’s umbilical cord blood after delivery. This blood is stored and available to the child in the event that he or she becomes ill later. Blood banking can be fairly expensive. However, the blood can be saved for up to twenty years. Banking the umbilical cord is strongly encouraged to parents who have a history of disease and/or disorders in their family, such as sickle cell anemia, leukemia, or other genetic immunodeficiencies. In some instances, a baby’s blood can be banked free of charge if they meet certain eligibility requirements. You can donate a baby’s umbilical cord blood to a blood bank. The stem cells would be used for babies or individuals who need them.
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