Written by: @empowered_mothers
At the time of birth, an infant is still attached to the mother via the umbilical cord, which is part of the placenta. The infant is usually separated from the placenta by clamping the umbilical cord. A practice known as delayed cord clamping is gaining popularity among healthcare professionals and expecting parents. As the name suggests, delayed cord clamping is carried out more than one minute after the birth or when cord pulsation has ceased. This practice has been associated with several benefits for newborns.
Improved Blood Volume
WHO Recommends,
"Delayed umbilical cord clamping (not earlier than 1 min after birth) is recommended for improved maternal and infant health and nutrition outcomes"
One of the most immediate benefits of delayed cord clamping is the improved blood volume in newborns. This process allows more blood from the placenta to flow to the newborn. This can result in a higher volume of red blood cells and increased iron stores, which are important for the baby's overall health and development.
Reduced Risk of Anemia
Iron deficiency anemia is a common condition among newborns, and delayed cord clamping can help to prevent it. The extra blood received by the baby during this process can significantly reduce the risk of anemia in the first few months of life.
Enhanced Oxygenation
The additional blood from the placenta is not just beneficial for iron stores and red blood cells; it also contains oxygen. This oxygen is crucial for the baby's immediate oxygenation and helps support the transition to breathing on their own. It's like giving the newborn a little extra boost to start their life.
Improved Cardiovascular Stability
Our cardiovascular system is responsible for pumping blood throughout our body, ensuring all our cells get the oxygen and nutrients they need. Delayed cord clamping has been linked to better cardiovascular stability in the newborn, including improved blood pressure and blood flow.
Decreased Risk of Intraventricular Hemorrhage
One of the more serious benefits of delayed cord clamping concerns preterm infants. Some studies suggest that this practice may be associated with a lower risk of intraventricular hemorrhage, which is bleeding within the brain, in preterm infants.
Optimal Blood Pressure Regulation
Another benefit of delayed cord clamping is better blood pressure regulation in the newborn during the first few days of life. This can help the baby adjust to life outside the womb and may reduce the risk of certain health complications.
Increased Stem Cell Transfer
Stem cells are unique cells that have the potential to develop into many different cell types in the body. The delayed transfer of stem cells from the placenta to the baby may have potential long-term benefits for the infant's health and development.
Improved Neurodevelopment Outcomes
Some studies suggest that delayed cord clamping may be associated with better neurodevelopment outcomes in infants. This could potentially result in improved cognitive and motor skills in the long run.
Facilitates Bonding
Delayed cord clamping allows for additional time for the baby and parents to bond immediately after birth, as the focus is on the connection between the newborn and the parents. This uninterrupted skin-to-skin contact immediately after birth is crucial for both the emotional and physical health of the newborn and the mother.
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Stay empowered, mothers!
Disclaimer:
The information contained in this blog is for educational purposes and is not intended to replace health, midwifery, or medical care, nor is it intended to be (or should be taken for) medical diagnosis, advice, treatment nor a cure or prevention of any disease or illness. Never disregard professional health or medical advice or delay in seeking medical treatment whether due to information obtained from this blog or otherwise.
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