Some traditional umbilical cord care practices in developing countries

Abstract

Traditional umbilical cord care practices in developing countries are helpful in some cases and harmful in others. This paper discusses some of the current practices and why they are helpful or harmful. Babies born in developing countries around the world often do not have the benefit of sanitary methods for cutting the umbilical cord or keeping the cord clean. In addition, a variety of traditional practices have evolved in different countries, some of which are harmful and some that help to ensure that bacteria do not enter the cord stump. This article will discuss some of the traditional umbilical cord care practices in developing countries around the world.