How long does it typically take for an infant's umbilical stump to fall off?

The typical timeframe for an infant's umbilical stump to fall off is between 7 to 14 days. This process can vary slightly from one infant to another, but most often, parents can expect the stump to detach within this range.

The umbilical stump forms after the umbilical cord is clamped and cut at birth, and it gradually dries out and separates as the healing process occurs. While some sources might indicate variations in this timeframe, the consensus aligns with the 7 to 14 days range as a typical period during which parents should monitor the stump for signs of healing without complications.

If the stump has not fallen off by about two weeks, it is generally advised to consult a pediatrician, as longer durations may indicate an issue. Therefore, choosing the duration of 7 to 14 days accurately represents the average expectation for most newborns.