P83: Other conditions of integument specific to fetus and newborn

P83.6: Umbilical polyp of newborn

The intestines are made up of the small intestine and the large intestine or colon. Most of the nutrients are absorbed in the small intestine. The large intestine (colon) is where water and salt are withdrawn from the stool. The last segment of the large intestine (colon) is the rectum. Stool then leaves the body through the anus. The intestines are lined with mucous membrane. A mucous membrane is a moist skin.

The intestines develop while in the womb. Temporarily, there is a connection from the child's intestine to the outside. This connection usually fades away while the baby is still in the womb. If the connection fails to disappear entirely, gastrointestinal mucous membrane can bulge outwards through the child’s navel. A roundish, reddish lump may then be observed at the navel.