The umbilical cord: 7 frequently asked questions
Practical guide – Umbilical cord of the newborn
- What is the umbilical cord and what is its role?
- When and how is the umbilical cord cut?
- How long does it take for the cord to fall off after birth?
- How to take care of the umbilical cord?
- How to recognize an umbilical cord infection?
- When should you consult if there is a problem with the cord?
- Can we keep the cord or the placenta? What does the law say?
What is the umbilical cord and what is its role?
The umbilical cord is this vital link —in the literal sense of the term — between mother and baby throughout pregnancy. It connects the fetus with the placenta and, through this "cord of life", are routed
nutrients
oxygen
the essential elements for the baby's growth.
After birth, this cord still fulfills a few crucial roles✨: it also contains valuable stem cells, which, in certain contexts, can be collected and stored.
Once the baby is born, it is this same cord that will be clamped and then cut, symbolically (and physiologically) cutting the link of dependence, while transforming the child into an independent newborn.
Did you know?
Ysé Naissance doulas can complete your pregnancy monitoring, they offer a complete support to prepare and be completely informed steps and steps to plan.
When and how is the umbilical cord cut?
The time and way of cutting the cord are the subject of discussions and personalized choices, both in hospitals and as part of birth support.
From birth, the cord quickly stops pulsing, signaling that the main transfer of placental blood the baby is finished. However, many professionals today recommend the "late clamping " from the cord: we wait between 1 to 3 minutes (sometimes more) to allow the newborn to benefit from all the remaining blood. This simple gesture is associated with better adaptation of the baby – in particular better hemoglobin level.
Here is a summary of cutting times based on common practices:
| Practical cutting | Cutting moment | Main advantages |
|---|---|---|
| Immediate clamping | In the first minute | Corresponds to old protocols, reduced risk of jaundice |
| Late clamping | 1 to 3 minutes after birth | Better iron reserve, increased physiological adaptation |
| Lotus birth | No cutting, cord falls off naturally (3 to 7 days) | Gentle transition, spirituality, no additional manipulation |
How long does it take for the cord to fall off after birth?
After cutting, a small stump of a few centimeters remains, which is sometimes called the "small tail of the cord". This leftover cord dries and eventually falls off naturally. This process takes on average 5 to 20 days.
The exact duration depends on many factors, including care of the stump and, above all, the absence of infections or maceration (persistent moisture).
Need support with a certified doula?
Reserve your first discovery call.
How to take care of the umbilical cord?
The issue of cord care raises a lot of concern among young parents. Believe me, most often simplicity wins💧!
Here are my basic recommendations:
🌬️ Leave the cord out in the open as much as possible
💦 Clean gently with lukewarm water if necessary (no systematic alcohol, unless specifically instructed by medicine).
🌞 Dry the stump well, tap gently.
👶🏼 Fold the layer under the cord to prevent friction and moisture.
🧴 Avoid ointments, powders or lotions not prescribed.
If you notice any unusual signs (– strong odor, persistent oozing, marked redness, heavy bleeding...), contact your doctor or birth attendant immediately.
How to recognize an umbilical cord infection?
Vigilance is required — although infections (omphalitis) be rare today, knowing how to detect them early helps avoid any worries!Here are the signs that should catch your attention:
🚨 Redness that extends to the abdomen
👃 Persistent foul odor
💦 Yellow or greenish oozing
🩸 Bleeding difficult to contain
🙁 Baby who seems uncomfortable or has a fever
I repeat, but if in doubt, consult your healthcare professional quickly.
Discover our team
Varied personalities forming a dedicated team to offer you support that suits you.
When should you consult if there is a problem with the cord?
Even if most stumps fall off without worry, certain signs justify consultation without delay:
Stump that does not fall off after 21 days
Presence of pus, severe redness, strong odor
Baby who is irritable, listless or has a fever
Continuous bleeding despite gentle pressure
If you experience any of these signs, contact a healthcare professional or your accompanying at birth.
Can we keep the cord or the placenta? What does the law say?
This question comes up more and more often among families sensitive to physiological reception! If you wish to keep a souvenir, it is possible (in most maternity wards in Quebec) to ask to keep the dried cord or even the placenta.
In Quebec, unless otherwise medically indicated (analysis necessary), the placenta does indeed belong to the family. Be careful, however, with food (encapsulation) or pharmaceutical use — these practices are not scientifically regulated.
Remember that every pregnancy is unique
Choosing a birth attendant can make all the difference in your experience of parenting.
Find all of the services offered in preparation for birth as well as the notice families supported by the Ysé Naissance team ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
