Early separation of the cord before 10 days

• Reassurance: The cord can't fall off too early. The average cord falls off between 10 and 14 days.
• Alcohol: Clean the navel with rubbing alcohol and a cotton swab 4 times per day. Pour some alcohol into the depression and remove it after 2 or 3 minutes. (Reason: it takes that long to kill the bacteria.) The umbilical area does not have any sensation, so the alcohol won't sting.
• Diapers: Keep the umbilical area dry to help healing. To provide air exposure, keep the diaper folded down below the navel.
• Dryness: Avoid tub baths until the area is healed.
• Call Your Doctor If:
  • Develops a red streak
  • Fever occurs
  • Your baby begins to look sick or develops any of the "Call Your Doctor" symptoms