Discharge from the Belly Button of a Newborn

What is it?

Discharge from the belly button of a newborn is fluid that may be released from the belly button area in the first days or weeks of a child's life. This is usually a natural process associated with the healing of the umbilical wound. However, if the discharge continues or changes in nature, it may indicate an infection or other issues that require medical attention.

Causes of Discharge from the Belly Button of a Newborn

• Physiological reasons. After birth, the belly button area remains a small wound that heals over time. In the first few days or weeks, there may be slight discharge, which is part of the normal healing process.
• Infections. If the umbilical wound becomes infected, the discharge may become more abundant, have an unpleasant smell, or change color. This may indicate an umbilical infection (omphalitis), which requires immediate medical attention.
• Poor hygiene. Insufficient hygiene of the belly button area can lead to bacterial growth, contributing to infections and discharge from the belly button.
• Other conditions. In some cases, discharge from the belly button may be a symptom of other conditions, such as a hernia or other pathologies.

When to See a Doctor?

• If the discharge has an unpleasant smell or turns green, yellow, or any other abnormal color.
• If the discharge continues for more than 2 weeks after birth.
• If the discharge is accompanied by redness, swelling, or pain around the belly button.
• If the baby becomes lethargic, has a fever, or exhibits other signs of infection.

Diagnosis and Treatment

• Examination by a pediatrician. The doctor will examine the belly button area and determine if there are signs of infection or other abnormalities.
• Swabs and tests. To identify an infection, laboratory tests (a swab from the belly button, blood tests) may be performed.
• Antibiotics. If a bacterial infection is present, antibiotics may be prescribed to treat the infection.
• Surgical intervention. In rare cases, if there is an umbilical hernia or other conditions, surgical intervention may be required.