12/08/2024
I’ve been really thinking about all the inconsistencies surrounding delayed cord cutting between hospital providers, midwives, and the data that's available. As a birth worker, it can sometimes be difficult to navigate through this, having to help advocate and literally say, "Leave the cord alone," when I have a doctor who’s snip-happy just seconds after birth (mind-blowing, by the way—and I prefer NOT to work with these providers). Then, there are other doctors who respect the parents' wishes, and I've even had delays of up to an hour in the hospital. Again, the inconsistency is staggering. What happens to a family who walks into a hospital expecting a certain standard of care, only to be faced with an on-call doctor who has no education on the benefits of leaving that cord alone?
Alright, so why does it matter if you wait to cut the cord? Well, it turns out there are some pretty big health benefits to keeping that cord intact for a little longer. Providers and parents, listen up:
More Blood, More Power: When you wait to cut the cord, the baby gets more blood from the placenta—up to a third of their total blood volume! That means more red blood cells, more oxygen, and more nutrients. Essentially, it’s like giving your baby a head start in life. More blood equals more strength!
Boost Those Iron Levels: That extra blood also means extra iron, which is crucial for brain development and overall growth. Babies are born with low iron stores, so those few extra minutes really help prevent iron deficiency, a common cause of anemia in newborns.
Immune System Kickstart: Placental blood is rich in stem cells and immune cells, which are essential for helping your baby fight off infections in the early days. These cells give the baby a solid boost to their immune system.
Smoother Transition: The baby’s first few breaths are a big deal, and delaying cord cutting can help ease the transition from placenta life to independent breathing. The placenta is still pumping oxygen to the baby, giving their lungs more time to kick into gear. Fewer breathing struggles? Yes, please!
At the end of the day, when to cut the cord is a personal decision. Some hospitals are adopting delayed cord clamping as the new standard, and homebirth midwives? They’ll tell you to give that cord some time to work its magic—sometimes up to an hour, sometimes even days.
Taking the time to wait and think about the timing of cord clamping could have lasting benefits for your baby. From boosting their blood supply to strengthening their immune system, that extra moment of connection could make a big difference.
Just make sure it’s an informed choice that’s right for you and your baby.
-Danielle
The Birthkeeper, LLC - Missouri Birth & Creative Services
www.thebirthkeeperllc.com
