The Ministry of Health (Minsa) issued recommendations on Apr. 8 for the proper cleaning and care of the umbilical cord in newborns to prevent infections that could affect their health.
Proper care of the umbilical cord is important because it serves as the physical link between mother and child, providing nutrients and oxygen during pregnancy. After birth, parents need to pay special attention to this small segment of tissue left behind, as inadequate hygiene can make it a pathway for germs that may harm the baby.
Dr. Carmen Dávila Aliaga, neonatologist at the National Maternal Perinatal Institute (INMP) under Minsa, said, “The recommendation is that se le coloque alcohol de 70 grados. Puede ser con un gotero, aplicando por los lados hasta que nos percatemos que se humedezca apropiadamente. Las mamás no deben tener temor; la porción del cordón no tiene fibras nerviosas, por lo que el bebé no tendrá dolor, ni sentirá ardor ni frío.” Dávila also explained that after birth, the remaining part of the umbilical cord undergoes a natural drying process called mummification which takes between seven and fourteen days before it detaches completely.
Minsa recommends cleaning with 70-degree alcohol at least once daily using a dropper or gauze—never cotton—and keeping the cord outside the diaper to avoid moisture from urine. The ministry advises against applying powders or antibiotics on the area as these can interfere with natural healing. It also stresses attending scheduled check-ups at two, seven, and fifteen days after birth so health personnel can monitor healing progress.
Parents are urged by Minsa to be alert for any changes in skin appearance around their baby’s navel such as redness, swelling or a foul smell similar to pus. If any such symptoms appear they should seek immediate medical attention at their nearest health center.
