Why is My Newborn's Belly Button Bleeding? Causes and Care Tips

As an expectant parent, the birth of your baby is an exciting and overwhelming experience. After months of antenatal care, preparing for delivery, and attending antenatal appointments, there are many things you may wonder about after your baby arrives, including their health and well-being. One common concern among new parents is a bleeding belly button on their newborn. It can be alarming, but it’s essential to understand why this happens and how to manage it with care.

In this article, we will explore the causes of belly button bleeding in newborns, what is considered normal, and what you should do if your baby’s belly button bleeds. Additionally, we will touch upon key topics like prenatal care and antenatal support to help you feel more confident in taking care of your baby during the early days.

What Causes Belly Button Bleeding in Newborns?

At birth, your baby’s umbilical cord is clamped and cut. After this, the stump of the umbilical cord remains attached to your newborn’s belly button and gradually falls off over time. The bleeding you notice at the belly button may occur during this process, but it can also happen if the stump becomes infected or if it’s not healing properly.

1. The Umbilical Cord Stump

Immediately after birth, the umbilical cord stump is typically about 2-3 inches long. Over the first week or two of life, the stump will begin to dry up and shrink. Eventually, it will naturally fall off. During this time, it’s possible for the stump to cause minor bleeding, which is generally not a cause for concern. This type of bleeding is usually the result of the stump separating from the skin, which may create a small wound that can bleed slightly.

2. Infection (Umbilical Granuloma)

In some cases, the belly button bleeding might be due to an infection in the umbilical stump, though this is less common. When the stump doesn’t heal properly or gets infected, it can cause redness, swelling, and discharge from the belly button area. An infection like this may lead to bleeding. This condition is known as umbilical granuloma, and it can be treated by your healthcare provider if necessary.

3. Improper Care of the Umbilical Stump

The way the umbilical cord stump is handled can also impact its healing. If the stump is exposed to moisture or isn’t kept clean and dry, it could cause irritation or bleeding. For instance, if the stump gets caught on clothing or if it’s too moist from diapers, bleeding may occur. Ensuring that the stump remains dry and clean can reduce the risk of bleeding and infection.

When is Belly Button Bleeding in Newborns Normal?

For the most part, mild bleeding from the belly button of a newborn is common and not a cause for concern. However, it’s crucial to keep track of your baby’s health and follow the advice from your healthcare provider regarding the care of the umbilical stump. Here are some things to keep in mind:

Minor Bleeding After the Stump Falls Off: After the umbilical cord stump falls off (usually within 1 to 3 weeks), some minor bleeding or discharge may occur. This is normal as the belly button heals. The area should not continue to bleed after a few days, and the skin around it should close up properly.

No Excessive Bleeding: If your baby’s belly button is bleeding but it’s not profusely, there’s likely no reason for concern. Light bleeding during the drying and shedding of the stump is normal and should stop soon.

Clean the Area Gently: While cleaning the belly button area, make sure to avoid using harsh products or pulling at the stump. Gently clean with warm water and mild soap, ensuring the area stays dry.

When Should You Seek Medical Advice?

While minor bleeding is typically harmless, there are situations when you should consult a doctor to rule out infections or other health issues:

1. Persistent or Excessive Bleeding

If the bleeding from your newborn’s belly button persists or is profuse, this is a sign that something may be wrong. Although mild bleeding is typical, prolonged or heavy bleeding requires medical attention.

2. Signs of Infection

If the belly button is not only bleeding but also swollen, red, or emitting a foul smell, this could be an indication of an infection. Umbilical infections need to be treated promptly to prevent complications. You may notice signs of infection such as:

Pus or foul-smelling discharge

Redness or swelling around the belly button

A fever in your newborn

Tenderness when the area is touched

If these symptoms occur, it’s essential to seek medical care as soon as possible.

3. Umbilical Granuloma

If the bleeding is accompanied by a small, raised lump in the belly button, this could be an umbilical granuloma. This benign growth can form during the healing process. While it may not be harmful, it might require medical intervention to ensure proper healing.

How to Care for Your Newborn’s Belly Button

Proper care for the belly button stump is essential to avoid infections and minimise the risk of bleeding. Here are a few tips for keeping the area clean and safe:

1. Keep the Area Clean and Dry

It’s essential to keep the area around the belly button clean and dry. Gently wipe around the stump with a clean, damp cloth, but avoid submerging it in water. Avoid using alcohol, as it may irritate the area and delay healing.

2. Avoid Tight Diapers

Make sure your baby’s diaper does not rub or irritate the belly button stump. Fold the diaper down so it does not touch the area, which allows the stump to dry and fall off naturally. This will also help prevent the stump from becoming infected.

3. Allow the Stump to Fall Off Naturally

Do not attempt to pull off the umbilical cord stump. Let it fall off on its own when it’s ready, which usually happens around 1 to 3 weeks after birth. You should avoid pulling or tugging at the stump to prevent causing any unnecessary bleeding or irritation.

4. Avoid Using Harsh Products

Stick to mild, baby-safe products when cleaning your newborn. Avoid using any harsh soaps, alcohol wipes, or ointments unless advised by your doctor.

Antenatal Care and Postpartum Health

Your newborn’s belly button health may seem like a small concern, but it’s one of many things to consider as you navigate life after birth. With proper antenatal care, you’re already prepared for many of the challenges that can come after delivery. For example, antenatal support is invaluable during this time, whether it’s having access to a trusted healthcare provider or attending antenatal appointments that give you the tools and knowledge to care for your newborn.

Incorporating pregnancy yoga and antenatal fitness practices during pregnancy can also contribute to better overall health and a smoother postpartum recovery. Additionally, antenatal education provides you with the information needed to handle newborn care confidently, including topics like belly button care, antenatal massage, and managing your baby’s comfort in the early weeks.

Although it may be a worrying experience for first-time parents, bleeding from your newborn’s belly button is typically normal as the umbilical stump falls off and heals. If the bleeding is minor and temporary, there’s no need for alarm. However, if you notice signs of infection or excessive bleeding, it’s crucial to contact a healthcare professional for guidance.

Proper care, such as keeping the area clean and dry, can help prevent infection and encourage natural healing. If you have any concerns about your baby’s health or healing process, don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for reassurance.