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The umbilical cord plays a vital role during pregnancy, providing the foetus with vital nutrients. The cord runs from the mother's placenta to an opening in the baby's stomach, and allows food and oxygen from the mother's bloodstream to be carried to the unborn child.
When the mother is nearing full term, the placenta begins to pass antibodies through the umbilical cord to help protect the baby against infection for around three months after it is born. However, the placenta can only pass on the antibodies which the mother already has.
After the mother has given birth, the baby has no need for the umbilical cord anymore and a midwife will clamp it in two different places. One plastic clip will be placed close to the baby's belly button and the other will be positioned at the other end of the cord, near the placenta.
With the two clamps in place, the midwife can then cut the cord. In some cases, the mother or her partner may choose to cut the cord. As there are no nerves contained in the umbilical cord, cutting it is not painful for the mother or her baby.
After the umbilical cord has been cut, the baby will be left with a stump which is usually around two to three cm long. The baby will have this umbilical stump for between five and 15 days, until it gradually dries out, turns black and finally falls off.
It is vital that the baby's belly button is kept clean and dry before the stump has dropped off as the belly button will not have fully healed and is vulnerable to infection.
After the mother has given birth, the midwife may take a blood sample from the umbilical cord which can help to establish the baby's blood group or test for sickle-cell anaemia.
Advice from a GP, health visitor or midwife should be sought as soon as possible in the event of any bleeding or discharge from the baby's belly button. Pregnant women can speak to a midwife or GP about any health concerns they may have.
Make a birth injury claim with YouClaim
If you or your baby has been involved in a birth accident due to medical negligence during labour, a birth injury lawyer at YouClaim may be able to help secure you the compensation you deserve.
We are very sensitive to the emotional pain and distress that birth injuries can cause, and our expert solicitors will ensure that you understand every step of your claim.
To speak to one of our legal advisors now, call 0800 10 757 95, or if you would prefer to speak at another time, request a call back at a time more convenient to you.
