Delayed Cord Clamping: What & Why?

General
1

Delayed cord clamping refers to waiting 1 to 3 minutes (or until the cord stops pulsating) before clamping and cutting the umbilical cord after birth

Why is it important?

  1. Improves iron stores in newborns — reducing the risk of anemia
  2. Increases blood volume by up to 30%
  3. Enhances oxygen delivery and supports organ development
  4. Associated with better neurodevelopmental outcomes
  5. Especially beneficial for preterm babies

WHO & ACOG Recommendation:
Wait at least 60 seconds before clamping the cord, unless the baby requires immediate resuscitation

Contraindications:

  1. Severe birth asphyxia needing urgent resuscitation
  2. Certain maternal/fetal complications (e.g., placental abruption)
3 Likes
2

It is also contraindicated in case of hiv positive mother having high viral load

3

Also in Erythroblastosis fetalis ..we have to perform early cord clamping

1 Like
4

It means waiting 30 seconds to a few minutes before cutting the umbilical cord after birth. Why? Because it allows more blood to flow from the placenta to the baby — boosting iron stores, improving circulation, and supporting healthy development. A simple delay, a big benefit.

5

We follow 1 minute rule for that. More than that is a courageous act!!