Two Studies on the Benefits of Delayed Cord Clamping

By: Lewis First, MD, MS; Editor-in-Chief 

Early (less than 30 seconds) versus delayed (greater than 30-60 seconds) cord clamping has been the subject of a number of recent studies in our journal and others, and this week, we share two more that are worth your attention.

Photo by Mamma Loves via Flickr

The first by Diaz-Castro et al. (doi: 10.1542/ peds.2013-3798) looks at the influence of early versus late cord clamping relative to oxidative stress and inflammation signaling. The delay in clamping may reduce the amount of oxidative stress and inflammation and improve outcomes without other adverse complications—at least according to data shared by these authors.

To lend further support to delayed clamping, Ersdal et al. (doi: 10.1542/peds.2014-0467) looked at the timing of cord clamping relative to spontaneous respiration. The authors studied more than 15,500 infants born in Tanzania and looked at neonatal outcomes and found benefit in reducing risk of death when spontaneous respirations preceded cord clamping.

To better understand the pathophysiologic mechanisms that result in beneficial outcomes to newborns by delayed cord clamping, read both studies and you’re likely to be in accord if you aren't already in seeing even more benefit to this practice when a baby is born.

Related Reading:

• Pediatrics: Delayed Cord Clamping in Very Preterm Infants Reduces the Incidence of Intraventricular Hemorrhage and Late-Onset Sepsis: A Randomized, Controlled Trial
• Pediatrics: Hemodynamic Effects of Delayed Cord Clamping in Premature Infants