After the umbilical cord is detached from the newborn, it is usually possible to take a bath on the same day as long as the umbilical cord is properly protected, but if there are adverse symptoms in the area around the umbilical cord, it is recommended to take a bath after complete recovery.
The umbilical cord usually falls off within 5 to 10 days after the birth of a newborn, and the umbilical cord nest will be formed after it falls off. Since newborns have low immune function, it is important to bathe when the umbilical nest is completely dry to avoid infection. Therefore, as long as the umbilicus is properly protected (e.g. by using an umbilical cord protector), bathing is usually possible on the same day.
However, if the umbilical area is red and swollen with purulent exudate, bathing in this situation is very likely to induce infection, so it is recommended to bathe after the symptoms have improved.
Therefore, the umbilicus is very important to the health of newborns, and it is important to protect the umbilicus properly when bathing. If adverse symptoms occur, it is important to go to the hospital in time to avoid further harm.