Umbilical cords between mothers and babies are usually clamped within the first minute of birth. However, research has suggested that waiting several minutes after the baby is born may provide significant health benefits to the child.
The umbilical cord is the connecting cord transferring materials between mother and child before the baby is born. Just after the baby is born, the umbilical cord is still transferring the nutrients and materials from the mother to her child. As such, as was published in a recent issue of the Journal of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, babies should be allowed the benefits of cord blood, especially in the form of the stem cells transferred.
According to Paul Sanberg, lead researcher from the University of Florida, the cord blood is “nature’s first stem cell transplant”.
This is especially in light of the fact that most problems faced by babies are related to their underdeveloped organs, which might be reduced significantly if the baby’s cord is not clamped, thus allowing the stem cells to work.
It was also concluded that many other illnesses, including respiratory distress, lung diseases, anaemia and certain eye diseases could be reduced if cord clamping was delayed.
Delayed clamping is not recommended for infants with respiratory problems and complications, however. In these cases, it is advised that the cord is cut immediately, before respiratory aid is given.
The World Health Organization recommends cord clamping between one and three minutes after birth. Nevertheless, before making any decisions, do consult your gynecologist for the best options.