Key takeaways: Delayed cord clamping means waiting at least 30 to 60 seconds after birth before clamping the cord. In term babies, it increases iron stores. In preterm babies, it improves circulation and reduces the need for blood transfusions. ACOG and the AAP support it for most vigorous babies.
In the past, the umbilical cord was often clamped and cut within seconds of birth. Research now shows that waiting a short time benefits most babies.
What Is Delayed Cord Clamping?
After birth, blood continues to flow from the placenta to the baby through the cord. Waiting before clamping allows more of that blood to reach the baby. ACOG recommends a delay of at least 30 to 60 seconds after birth for vigorous term and preterm infants.
Benefits for Term Babies
- Higher iron stores in the first months of life, which may help prevent iron deficiency.
- Some studies suggest possible developmental benefits, though more research is needed.
From the author
From First Breath to First Birthday is my month-by-month guide to your baby’s first year, written as a NICU and postpartum nurse. My book covers everyday newborn care month by month, plus the warning signs that mean it’s time to call the doctor.
Benefits for Preterm Babies
- Better circulation during the transition to breathing.
- Fewer blood transfusions.
- Lower risk of some complications, such as necrotizing enterocolitis and certain types of bleeding in the brain, in some studies.
- Some research suggests lower mortality.
Possible Downsides
Delayed cord clamping may slightly increase the chance of jaundice that needs phototherapy in term babies. Hospitals monitor for jaundice routinely.
When It May Not Be Possible
Delayed cord clamping may not be appropriate when:
- The baby needs immediate resuscitation.
- The birthing parent is bleeding heavily or unstable.
- There are problems with the placenta or cord.
In some situations, providers may use cord “milking” in specific circumstances, though it’s not recommended for very preterm babies because of safety concerns.
Cesarean Births
Delayed cord clamping can usually be done during cesarean births too.
Cord Blood Banking
If you plan to donate or bank cord blood, discuss with your provider how this will be balanced with delayed clamping.
The Bottom Line
Delayed cord clamping is a simple, low-cost practice that benefits most babies. Ask your provider about it as part of your birth preferences.
Want more support for your baby’s first year? My book, From First Breath to First Birthday, is available on Amazon.
Related Articles
- Writing Newborn Care Preferences Into Your Birth Plan
- Anemia in Babies
- Delayed Milk Coming In: Risk Factors and What Helps
Sources
- American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Committee Opinion No. 814: Delayed umbilical cord clamping after birth. Obstet Gynecol. 2020;136(6):e100-e106.
- McDonald SJ, Middleton P, Dowswell T, Morris PS. Effect of timing of umbilical cord clamping of term infants on maternal and neonatal outcomes. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2013;(7):CD004074.
- Rabe H, Gyte GM, Díaz-Rossello JL, Duley L. Effect of timing of umbilical cord clamping and other strategies to influence placental transfusion at preterm birth on maternal and infant outcomes. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2019;9(9):CD003248.
- World Health Organization. Guideline: Delayed Umbilical Cord Clamping for Improved Maternal and Infant Health and Nutrition Outcomes. Geneva: WHO; 2014.
This article is for general education and is not a substitute for individualized medical advice. Always talk with your baby’s health care provider or your own provider about your specific situation. If you think your baby or you may have a medical emergency, call 911.
