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Overview
The stump falls off in 1 to 3 weeks.
Keep it dry.
When to get medical care
Call 911Baby very sleepy or has trouble breathing.
Get care todayRedness, pus, or fever.
See a doctor soonNot usually urgent.
Causes
Caused by bacteria.
OwieClear has pages on 1 condition that can cause umbilical cord stump looks red, oozes, or smells. Each shows how soon to get care.
Common causes
- Umbilical cord stump careSee a doctor if it doesn't get better
The cord stump usually dries and falls off within 1 to 3 weeks.
What you can do at home
- Keep dry.
- Fold diaper below.
Medicines
Antibiotics.
At the doctor
Diagnosed by exam.
Questions you may be asked
- Symptoms
The exam
A belly exam.
Tests
- None
Prevention
Keep dry.
- Air dry
Check your symptoms
Most symptoms have more than one possible cause. The symptom checker looks at all of your symptoms together, plus your age, and shows how soon to get care.
Sources
Last updated 2026-11-13.