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What is an umbilical cord?

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Dr. Ann Kellams: Hi, I am Dr. Ann Kellams with the University of Virginia Health System. I am a Pediatrician. Let's talk about caring for your baby.

Host: What is an umbilical cord?

Dr. Ann Kellams: So the umbilical cord is the actual, physical connection between the mom and her blood supply and the baby. The umbilical cord goes from the baby's navel to the placenta which is the bridge between the two systems and once the baby is born the cord is clamped. So you put a clamp on either end of the cord and slice through the middle and literally, cut it. So then what the baby is left with is a little stump.

Expert: Dr. Ann Kellams

Assistant Professor of Pediatrics

Dr. Ann Lenox Kellams, assistant professor of clinical pediatrics in the Division of General Pediatrics and medical director of the newborn nursery at the University of Virginia Children’s Hospital, is an expert in newborn care and breastfeeding. Kellams teaches pediatric clinical skills to students and residents and authored the Newborn Nursery Resident and Student Curriculum and Orientation Manual for UVA More »