Cutting the umbilical cord 2 minutes late is good for baby's physical and mental health

Why is it important to delay cutting the umbilical cord?

The umbilical cord is a lifeline that connects a baby to its mother during pregnancy. It provides the baby with oxygen, nutrients, and waste removal. After the baby is born, the umbilical cord is typically clamped and cut immediately. However, there is growing evidence that delaying cutting the umbilical cord for 2 minutes can have significant benefits for the baby's health.

Benefits of delaying cord clamping

There are a number of benefits to delaying cord clamping, including:

Increased iron stores. Iron is an essential mineral that is necessary for red blood cell production. Babies who have their umbilical cords clamped immediately have lower iron stores than babies whose cords are clamped delayed. This can lead to iron deficiency anemia, which can cause fatigue, pale skin, and shortness of breath.

Improved neurodevelopment. Studies have shown that babies who have their umbilical cords clamped delayed have better neurodevelopmental outcomes than babies whose cords are clamped immediately. This is likely due to the fact that delayed cord clamping allows more oxygen and nutrients to reach the baby's brain.

Reduced risk of respiratory problems. Babies who have their umbilical cords clamped delayed are less likely to develop respiratory problems, such as respiratory distress syndrome (RDS). RDS is a serious condition that can cause difficulty breathing and lead to lung damage.

Lower risk of infection. Babies who have their umbilical cords clamped delayed are less likely to develop infections, such as sepsis and meningitis. This is likely due to the fact that delayed cord clamping allows more white blood cells to reach the baby's bloodstream.

Improved cardiovascular health. Babies who have their umbilical cords clamped delayed have better cardiovascular health than babies whose cords are clamped immediately. This is likely due to the fact that delayed cord clamping allows more blood to flow to the baby's heart and lungs.

How long should the umbilical cord be clamped?

The optimal time to clamp the umbilical cord is 2 minutes after birth. This allows enough time for the baby to receive the full benefits of delayed cord clamping. However, it is important to note that there is no need to delay cord clamping for more than 2 minutes.

Who should not delay cord clamping?

There are a few cases in which it is not recommended to delay cord clamping. These include:

Babies who are born prematurely.

Babies who have a low birth weight.

Babies who have a congenital heart defect.

Babies who are in distress.

How to delay cord clamping

If you are planning to delay cord clamping, it is important to talk to your doctor or midwife beforehand. They will be able to provide you with specific instructions on how to do so.

To delay cord clamping, simply hold the umbilical cord between your fingers and wait 2 minutes before clamping and cutting it. You can use a timer to help you keep track of the time.

Once the 2 minutes are up, you can clamp and cut the umbilical cord as usual.

Conclusion

Delaying cord clamping for 2 minutes is a simple and effective way to improve the health of your newborn baby. There are a number of benefits to delayed cord clamping, including increased iron stores, improved neurodevelopment, reduced risk of respiratory problems, lower risk of infection, and improved cardiovascular health.

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