The Benefits of Delayed Cord Clamping: What Parents Need to Know

As expectant parents, there are countless choices to make around birth. One of the seemingly small but impactful choices during birth is the timing of when to clamp and cut the umbilical cord. Delayed cord clamping (DCC) has gained attention as a practice that can offer newborns additional health benefits by waiting a few minutes before cutting the cord. If you’re exploring your birth plan and wondering about the benefits of delayed cord clamping, here’s what you need to know.

What Is Delayed Cord Clamping?

Delayed cord clamping is simply the practice of waiting a little longer to clamp and cut the baby’s umbilical cord after birth. Traditionally, cords have been clamped almost immediately after birth—often within 15 to 30 seconds. With delayed cord clamping, however, the cord is left intact for anywhere from one to five minutes, or until it stops pulsing. This allows extra time for the blood in the placenta to continue flowing into the baby, delivering vital nutrients and oxygen.

The exact timing may vary based on birth circumstances and preferences, but even a delay of one minute can make a difference.

Why Delay Cord Clamping? Key Benefits for Your Baby

The placenta continues to deliver oxygenated, nutrient-rich blood to your baby through the cord immediately after birth. By allowing this blood flow to continue, delayed cord clamping offers several potential health benefits for newborns:

Increased Iron Levels

One of the most significant benefits of delayed cord clamping is improved iron levels in the newborn. Iron is essential for brain development, immune function, and overall growth. Studies have shown that delayed cord clamping can increase a newborn’s iron stores for up to six months, reducing the risk of iron deficiency during this critical period of development. For families wanting to support their baby's cognitive and physical development, this simple practice can make a meaningful difference.

Better Blood Volume and Red Blood Cell Count

Delayed cord clamping provides your baby with an additional supply of blood—often around a third more than if the cord is clamped immediately. This boost increases the baby's blood volume, which can help stabilize blood pressure and improve circulation. The additional red blood cells provide more oxygen to their organs and tissues, supporting smoother transitions for your baby’s body as it adapts to life outside the womb.

Support for Preterm Babies

For babies born prematurely, the benefits of delayed cord clamping can be even more pronounced. Research suggests that delayed cord clamping can reduce the risk of complications associated with prematurity, such as respiratory distress and brain hemorrhages. Premature babies often have more delicate and immediate needs, and the extra blood and oxygen from delayed clamping can be incredibly valuable in supporting their early development.

Understanding the Process: What to Expect with Delayed Cord Clamping

Delayed cord clamping is a straightforward practice, but it’s always best to discuss your preferences with your healthcare provider beforehand. During the birth, whether it’s vaginal or cesarean, the cord will simply be left untouched for a few extra minutes. You may even notice that the cord continues to pulse, delivering blood to your baby, and eventually turns white or stops pulsing, signaling that the transfer is complete.

Some parents wonder if delayed clamping might interfere with immediate skin-to-skin bonding. Thankfully, it doesn’t! Many healthcare providers encourage skin-to-skin contact immediately after birth, and delayed cord clamping can happen while your baby rests on your chest.

When Immediate Clamping Might Be Necessary

While delayed cord clamping is beneficial in most cases, there are situations where immediate clamping may be necessary. For instance, if there’s an urgent medical need that requires the baby to be taken to the neonatal care team right away, the cord may need to be clamped sooner. Additionally, certain complications during birth, such as excessive bleeding or issues with the placenta, might affect the decision.

It’s important to trust your healthcare provider and discuss these possibilities before labor so that everyone is on the same page about your preferences and what to do if circumstances change.

Advocating for Delayed Cord Clamping: Making Your Birth Preferences Known

If delayed cord clamping is something you’re interested in, consider adding it to your birth plan and discussing it with your birth team ahead of time. Many hospitals and birthing centers are now familiar with this practice and are often more than willing to accommodate it when possible. Your provider can help answer any specific questions and guide you on what to expect in your particular birth setting.

A Simple Choice with Lasting Benefits

The moments right after birth are some of the most precious and critical for both you and your baby. By allowing those extra moments of blood flow, delayed cord clamping offers a gentle start with proven health benefits. Whether it’s higher iron levels, better oxygenation, or a smoother transition to life outside the womb, this practice can be a powerful way to support your baby’s first moments in the world.

As with all birth choices, remember that you have the right to make informed decisions that feel right for you and your family. Delayed cord clamping is one of those small, simple choices that can provide lasting support for your newborn—an option that aligns with the body’s natural wisdom and rhythm, bringing both you and your baby closer to a healthy and peaceful beginning.