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The umbilical cord is a lifeline connecting the fetus to the placenta, providing oxygen and nutrients while removing waste. It typically contains one vein and two arteries surrounded by Wharton’s jelly. Formed in the first trimester, it reaches about 50-60 cm in length, is cut at birth, and falls off the infant within 1-3 weeks.
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Key Aspects of the Umbilical Cord
- Function: It is not directly connected to the mother's circulatory system but joins the placenta, facilitating the exchange of nutrients and oxygen to the baby and waste removal from the baby.
- Structure: It contains one umbilical vein (oxygen-rich blood to fetus) and two umbilical arteries (deoxygenated blood to placenta), encased in a substance called Wharton's jelly.
- Development: It forms around the 5th week of pregnancy, replacing the yolk sac as the primary nutrient source.
- Post-Birth Care: The cord is clamped and cut after birth, leaving a stump that dries and turns black. The stump typically falls off within 5 to 15 days, though it can take up to 3 weeks.
- Care Tips: Keep the area clean and dry, folded below the diaper, and allow it to fall off naturally. Avoid alcohol, which can delay drying.
When to Call a Doctor: Consult a pediatrician if the area has a foul odor, yellow discharge, significant redness, or if the baby develops a fever.
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Common Questions
- Does it hurt the baby? No, the umbilical cord has no nerves, so cleaning it or it falling off causes no pain.
- What is a nuchal cord? A nuchal cord occurs when the umbilical cord is wrapped around the baby's neck, which is generally harmless in most cases.
- What happens after it falls off? The area heals to become the belly button. Sometimes, a small, red, healing bump called an umbilical granuloma may form, which can be treated by a doctor
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