Timing of Umbilical Cord Clamping and Infant Brain Development

Delaying umbilical cord clamping (DCC) for at least 30-60  seconds after birth is recommended in preterm and full-term births.1,2 Compared with immediate cord clamping (ICC), DCC is associated with better hemodynamic stability, a decreased need for transfusions, and a lower risk of intraventricular hemorrhage and necrotizing enterocolitis in preterm infa nts.3 In full-term infants, DCC is associated with higher hemoglobin levels after birth, improved iron status at 4-6 months of age,4 and better neurodevelopment, especially in boys, at 4 years of age.
Source: The Journal of Pediatrics - Category: Pediatrics Authors: Tags: Editorials Source Type: research