What is the effect of keeping the cord stump dry and clean?

Maintaining a dry and clean cord stump is crucial for promoting healing and preventing infection. The umbilical cord stump, once cut, is essentially a healing wound that requires proper care to minimize the risk of complications.

A dry stump reduces moisture, which is an environment conducive to bacterial growth. When the area is clean, it is less likely to come into contact with irritants or pathogens that could lead to infections. Infections can complicate healing, leading to more severe issues such as omphalitis, which is an infection of the umbilical stump. Therefore, the practice of keeping the cord stump dry and clean directly correlates with better outcomes regarding healing and the risk of infection.

While some may think that such care might hasten the falling off of the cord, the primary focus should be on preventing infection and allowing for proper healing, rather than the rate of separation. Additionally, keeping it clean and dry is generally sufficient to minimize the need for further medical interventions and ensures that the environment surrounding the stump remains safe for the newborn.