Abstract

AYURVEDIC AND MODERN CONCEPTS IN RATIONALIZED CARE OF UMBILICUS AND MANAGEMENT OF UMBILICAL DISORDERS IN NEONATAL PERIOD

Srivastava Niraj* and Saxena Varsha

ABSTRACT

According to modern science, the umbilical cord forms by the fifth week of fetal development, replacing the yolk sac as the source of nutrients for the fetus. Thereafter, until birth, the umbilical cord serves as the lifeline to the fetus, as it supplies all the nutrition. The function of umbilical cord ceases with the birth of baby, and then it needs to be cut immediately. The care of umbilical stump after cutting the umbilical cord thus forms an integral part of the management of every newborn baby. A number of abnormalities can affect the umbilical cord, which can pose threat to the well being of baby, and sometimes mother as well. Improper cord care methods are the chief cause of most of the umbilical diseases in neonatal period. So care of umbilicus and management of umbilicus disorders are one of the important areas of interest in pediatric practice. Purpose of this paper is to put together the Ayurvedic and modern concepts of cord care and management of related disorders, so as to facilitate a safer, effective and rationalized umbilical care in today‟s scientific era.

Keywords: Abnormalities, Ayurvedic, Cord care, Modern, Umbilical cord.