The wait times in our emergency departments are longer than usual due to illnesses like RSV and the flu. View our estimated ED wait times and learn more about where to get care for your sick child.

Patient & Family Education Materials

Start over with a New Search

What's an Umbilical Cord?

Article Translations: (Spanish)

Umbilical Cord

Say: um-BIL-ih-kul kord

This is the name for the long tube that runs between a mother and her unborn baby. It carries oxygen and nutrients to the baby and waste away from the baby. When the baby is born, the doctor cuts the umbilical cord and a small piece is left attached to the baby. When this piece falls off, you can see the baby's belly button!

Back To Top

Note: All information is for educational purposes only. For specific medical advice, diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor.

© 1995-2025 KidsHealth ® All rights reserved. Images provided by iStock, Getty Images, Corbis, Veer, Science Photo Library, Science Source Images, Shutterstock, and Clipart.com