During the few hours or days you have in the hospital following your delivery many things will be occurring. You will be recovering from the work of labor and childbirth, your new baby will be adjusting to a new environment and you will be learning about each other. The information in the preceding section is meant to provide descriptions of behavior and appearance found in most babies. This section deals more with day to day care of your infant.

The umbilical cord is still attached when the baby goes home from the hospital. Some blood tinged oozing is common. This may persist while the cord is still attached and may continue for five or six days after the cord has fallen off. Usually, the cord will detach by the time the baby is three weeks old, but can stay attached for up to five weeks with no problem.

Some protrusion of the navel is frequently seen, but usually requires no treatment. If treatment is necessary, we will bring it to your attention. If you notice any drainage or redness involving the navel, call the office for an appointment.

Umbilical hernia (an opening below the navel that protrudes when the baby cries) is common, and in most instances will close and disappear within the first two years. “Belly bands” and taping the navel serve no purpose, are dangerous and should be avoided.