WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: What is an umbilical granuloma? An umbilical granuloma is scar tissue on your baby's umbilicus (belly button). This tissue may be left behind on his belly button after his umbilical cord falls off. What causes an umbilical granuloma? The cause of an umbilical granuloma may not be known. A granuloma may be caused by extra moisture. A granuloma may develop when an umbilical cord takes longer than usual (more than a few weeks) to fall off. What are the signs and symptoms of an umbilical granuloma? An umbilical granuloma does not usually cause pain. Your baby may have any of the following signs or symptoms: - A red or pink bump over his belly button
- Pink, bloody, or yellow drainage from his belly button
How is an umbilical granuloma treated? Your baby's umbilical granuloma may get better without treatment. You may need to apply rubbing alcohol, cream, or ointment to help the tissue dry out and fall off. Talk to your baby's healthcare provider about the best way to treat your baby's granuloma. How can I manage my baby's umbilical granuloma? - Change your baby's diaper frequently. This will decrease moisture and help the granuloma heal. Keep his diaper below his belly button to prevent urine from soaking the area.
- Sponge bathe your baby. This will keep the granuloma dry and help it fall off faster. It will also prevent the granuloma from getting infected. Do not give your baby a bath or soak his belly button in water.
- Apply rubbing alcohol to the granuloma as directed. This may help the tissue dry out and fall off. Ask your healthcare provider where to buy rubbing alcohol and how often to apply it.
- Apply cream or ointment to the granuloma as directed.
- Wash your hands and put on gloves.
- Place gauze over the skin around your baby's belly button. This will prevent burns or damage to his healthy skin.
- Apply the medicine as directed.
- Remove your gloves, throw them away, and wash your hands.
When should I seek immediate care? - Your baby has a large amount of foul-smelling yellow, brown, or bloody drainage from his belly button.
- Your baby cries when you touch his belly button or the skin around it.
When should I contact my baby's healthcare provider? - Your baby has a fever.
- Your baby has redness or swelling around the belly button.
- Your baby is not eating well.
- Your baby spits up large amounts frequently.
- Your baby goes 1 or more days without having a bowel movement, which is unusual for your baby.
- You have questions or concerns about your baby's condition or care.
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