Question
What should I do when a newborn has blood and pus discharging from the umbilical cord and an umbilical hernia?
Answer
When a newborn exhibits bleeding, pus discharge, and an umbilical hernia from the umbilical cord, it could be a sign of umbilical inflammation. In cases of mild umbilical inflammation, you can use 2.5-3.5% hydrogen peroxide for cleaning, followed by applying 5% povidone-iodine solution twice a day while keeping the umbilicus dry. If the bleeding is minor and there is no redness or swelling around the area, and the baby is not feverish, it usually requires only attention to disinfection. However, if the bleeding does not stop, consider the possibility of hemorrhagic diseases and seek further medical examination by a doctor.