Optimal Cord Clamping

What’s the evidence on optimal cord clamping? from Dr Sara Wickham 

We’ve known for many years that there are many advantages to leaving the umbilical cord intact for a few minutes after birth.

Clamping and cutting the cord too early) can deplete a baby’s iron stores and be detrimental to their health. In premature babies, early clamping and cutting of the cord leads to a lower chance of survival.

This is important information for parents, caregivers, birth workers and others.

 Delaying cord clamping for six minutes is safe.

 In 2021, an important study showed that it is safe to wait 6 minutes after birth, even when an oxytocic drug is given to assist with the birth of the placenta.

 Waiting, which is sometimes called delayed cord clamping or optimal cord clamping, means that the baby has the chance to get all the blood that they need from the placenta before the supply is cut off.

We have known for many years that it is better to wait than to interfere, but it is taking a while for things to change in some areas of the world.

Click here to read more from Dr Sara Wickham