Question
The 5-month-old baby’s navel has an unpleasant smell and is red and swollen. What could be the cause, and is it a serious condition?
Answer
The unpleasant smell and redness in a baby’s navel are primarily due to an umbilical cord membrane perforation. It is recommended to minimize the baby’s crying, as it can lead to more abdominal bloating. Typically, as the baby grows to about 9 months old, this condition tends to improve gradually. During this period, it is crucial to maintain the baby’s navel in a dry state.