Delayed Cord Clamping
If you’ve been reading up or attending classes on birth, you might have come across the term ‘delayed cord clamping.’ In this blog, let’s discuss the evidence and benefits of delayed cord clamping and how it’s practiced at The Birth Center of New Jersey.
What Is Delayed Cord Clamping?
This is when we let the placenta drain completely before we clamp and cut the umbilical cord after birth. After birth, there’s a lot of the baby’s blood left in the cord, so we must wait until all of that blood has transferred to the baby’s circulation before clamping and cutting the cord. We usually wait until the umbilical cord turns completely white and limp as the placenta detaches. This indicates no more blood is transferring from the placenta to the baby. It usually takes 2-3 minutes. This is when we clamp and cut the cord.
What Are The Benefits?
Delayed cord clamping is now preferred over the early technique of immediately clamping and cutting the umbilical cord. The various benefits of delayed cord clamping include a decreased risk of anemia or low hemoglobin levels in the baby. This practice helps ensure that the baby has sufficient red blood cells, which are crucial for transporting oxygen throughout the body. Additionally, delayed cord clamping contributes to improved iron stores for the first few months of the baby’s life, providing a vital nutrient necessary for healthy development and growth.
Furthermore, there is a lower risk of fetal complications such as necrotizing enterocolitis or hemorrhage. Necrotizing enterocolitis is a serious intestinal disease that primarily affects premature infants, and having adequate blood and nutrient supply can help prevent such conditions. Similarly, the practice reduces the likelihood of hemorrhage, ensuring that the baby’s circulatory system remains stable.
Another significant benefit is the lower risk of fetal hypothermia. Maintaining an adequate blood volume and nutrient supply helps regulate the baby’s body temperature, preventing the dangerous drop in temperature that can occur immediately after birth. This overall reduction in risk factors contributes to the baby’s healthier start in life, highlighting the importance of delayed cord clamping as a beneficial practice during childbirth.
When is Delayed Cord Clamping Not Possible?
Despite the benefits, delayed cord clamping might not be possible in every case. Several specific situations can necessitate immediate intervention, preventing the practice of delayed cord clamping. For instance, if the baby needs immediate resuscitation, prompt transfer to pediatric care is essential, making delayed clamping impractical. Another scenario is when the placenta is abnormally attached, such as in cases of placenta previa or placental abruption, which can complicate the delivery process and require urgent medical attention. Additionally, if the mother is experiencing heavy bleeding postpartum, immediate measures must be taken to control the hemorrhage, thus delaying cord clamping is not feasible in these critical situations.
If you still have concerns or questions regarding delayed cord clamping or any other aspect of your birth, it’s best to discuss this with your healthcare provider during your prenatal appointments or feel free to contact us with any questions!