As a result, the American Academy of Pediatrics supports delayed umbilical cord clamping as recommended by the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology. The Neonatal Resuscitation Program released an update in 2015 that recommends delaying cord clamping for at least 30-60 seconds for preemies and term infants.
Despite this, delayed cord clamping is not without risk.
There has been concern for increased jaundice or yellow coloring to the skin and eyes; polycythemia, where there are too many red cells in the blood; and hemorrhage or bleeding in mothers after delivery. Studies have shown only a minimal increased risk in jaundice, which was treated with phototherapy, and no greater risk of polycythemia. There was also no increased risk of postpartum hemorrhage. Therefore these potential risks do not outweigh the benefits of delayed cord clamping. It is also not guaranteed that every preemie will experience this benefit. In some instances where the baby is limp and not breathing or if there is concern for maternal bleeding then delayed cord clamping should not be performed.
Nevertheless even the possibility to give preemies a well-needed boost at delivery can provide hope to parents who deliver before term. Research into prematurity is ongoing and hopefully will provide even more opportunities to assist these little ones as they make an early entrance into life.
Dr. Launice is a board certified pediatrician trained in the specialty of Neonatology whose passion is caring for sick babies and helping Moms transition to life in the NICU with a preemie. She is an author, speaker and social media expert. Learn more about Dr. Launice at www.drlaunicemd.com and by following her on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Youtube @DrLauniceMD