Why And When Umbilical Cord Clamping Might Be Useful?

Know the advantages of umbilical cord clamping, including enhanced blood flow and increased iron reserves, and learn about optimal timing for maximum benefits.

The process of childbirth is a remarkable and complex event that involves several critical decisions to ensure the health and well-being of both the mother and the newborn. One such decision is when to clamp and cut the umbilical cord, which connects the baby to the placenta during pregnancy. Traditionally, immediate cord clamping was standard practice, but recent research has shed light on the potential benefits of delayed cord clamping.

This blog will explore why and when umbilical cord clamping might be useful, considering the latest scientific evidence.

Benefits of Delayed Cord Clamping

Several advantages are associated with delayed cord clamping, different for the term and preterm neonates. Here are some benefits related to delayed cord clamping:

• Increased Blood Volume and Iron Stores

Delayed cord clamping allows more blood to flow from the placenta to the baby. This additional blood volume can help increase the baby's iron stores, which is crucial for healthy brain development and prevents iron-deficiency anemia in infancy.

• Improved Oxygenation

Delayed cord clamping allows the baby to continue receiving oxygen-rich blood from the placenta, promoting better oxygenation during the transition from the womb to independent breathing. It also helps in cord blood storage . It can be particularly beneficial for premature babies or those requiring extra support during their first moments of life.

• Enhanced Immune Function

Research suggests delayed cord clamping may boost the baby's immune system by transferring vital immune cells and antibodies from the placenta. It can protect against infections and help strengthen the newborn's immune defenses.

• Decreased Risk of Anemia

By increasing the baby's iron stores, delayed cord clamping may reduce the risk of anemia in infancy, which can have long-term implications for cognitive development and overall health. It also helps in cord blood preservation.

Summing up,

Effective umbilical cord preservation decreases the mortality rate of neonates. By allowing the baby to receive additional blood volume, oxygen, and vital nutrients from the placenta, delayed cord clamping may contribute to better health outcomes, including improved iron stores, enhanced immune function, and decreased risk of anemia.

Cryoviva is one of India's best and most renowned stem cell storage facilities, which collects and stores baby's cord blood collection using cutting-edge and reliable technologies. Contact Cryoviva's experts today to schedule a consultation!