Benefits Of Delayed Cord Clamping

Benefits of Delayed Cord Clamping

In the recent years, the method of cutting the umbilical cord was done at birth but today it is done immediately when the newborn baby surfaces from the womb. However, studies show that earlier cord clamping in not only unnecessary, but also compromises the child’s health as it deprives him of essential nutrients and adequate blood supply. This is the reason why delayed chord clamping is encouraged, thus ensure you do thorough research to identity which is the best way to go about it.

1. Reduces risk of anemia

Research has shown that babies who undergo delayed clamping have sufficient amount of iron in the blood than those who are clamped immediately after birth. Iron help influence health, as it reduces a baby’s risk of anemia.

2. Helps in premature birth

Mother should consider delayed chord clamping when they undergo premature labor. According to recent studies, clamping the umbilical cord later on is healthy for low-birth-weight-babies as it prevents intraventricular hemorrhage.

3. Medical research

Although delayed cord clamping may not help with cord donation, the cord can either be stored for medical research or for donation. Nevertheless, this procedure is only done after getting consent from both parents in order to avoid legal action.

4. Adequate oxygen supply

I believe that delayed cord clamping is important for the young born as he continues to receive essential nutrients and oxygen provided the umbilical cord is still pulsating. However, I also know that immediate cord clamping is a common routine practiced today.

5. Maintains health of the baby

Delayed cord clamping gives doctors an opportunity to determine if the baby needs extra care, for instance in a case of premature birth.

Delayed cord clamping also has its share of disadvantages as well. Studies show that babies who undergo delayed cord clamping are more susceptible to jaundice, as their livers are not developed to produce bilirubin.

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