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Trusted answers from The Hospital for Sick Children September 10, 2010
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// Conditions and Diseases / Heart and Blood Vessel Disorders / Umbilical Cord: Bleeding   Email Article Print Comment Share
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Umbilical Cord: Bleeding

Why is your child's umbilical cord bleeding?

A few drops of blood at the point of separation of the cord is common. The area may bleed a few times from the diaper rubbing on the area or your baby's normal movements.

The bleeding usually stops by itself or can be stopped easily by direct pressure with a sterile gauze.

When should you call your child's health care provider?

Call immediately if:

  • bleeding doesn't stop after 10 minutes of direct pressure
  • any bleeding amounts to more than the size of a quarter

Call during office hours if:

  • bleeding continues for more than 3 days
  • you have other questions or concerns
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Last ReviewedReviewed by
June 21, 2004Andrew James, MBChB, FRACP, FRCPC
 
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