Delayed cord clamping is a common practice in many birthing centers, and is the subject of significant research. It involves the delaying of the cutting of the umbilical cord until after the baby has had a chance to receive the full blood volume from the mother placenta. Research indicates delayed cord clamping may offer benefits to both the baby and the mother. This is particularly true of vigorous preterm newborns.

So, which of the following may be associated with delayed cord clamping in vigorous preterm newborns?

• Improved blood volume, since the baby has had time to transfer the maximum amount of blood into its circulation.
• Smoother transition from fetal to neonatal life, since the baby has been able to complete the majority of its respiratory effort before the delivery of the placenta.
• Reduced risk of intraventricular hemorrhage, since the baby is better able to stabilize its blood pressure.
• Improved long-term iron stores, since the longer the umbilical cord is left intact, the more iron is available for the baby.
• Lower rates of sepsis, since the baby has had time to receive antibodies from the mother’s placenta.

Delayed cord clamping is beneficial for most preterm babies, although more research is needed to determine the ideal timing and duration of clamping in different clinical scenarios. In the meantime, it is important to discuss the benefits and risks of delayed cord clamping with your healthcare provider before giving birth.