Umbilical infection

The umbilical cord is the only way for the mother to communicate with the fetus. The mother supplies the baby with nutrients through the umbilical vein. The umbilical artery also transports waste from the fetus to the mother. After the fetus is detached from the mother, the umbilical cord has completed its historical mission and will fall off naturally. The umbilical cord is a susceptible site for neonatal infections. If improperly handled, bacteria can enter the blood through the umbilical cord, causing systemic infections and neonatal sepsis. The umbilical cord usually falls off five to seven days after birth.