Weighing the Pros and Cons of Delayed Cord Clamping in Newborn Care

What Is Delayed Cord Clamping?

When your baby is born, one of the first choices you may face is when to clamp and cut the umbilical cord. Delayed cord clamping (DCC) simply means waiting — usually 30 seconds to 3 minutes — before clamping the cord. That pause allows a gentle flow of extra blood from the placenta to your baby, offering benefits for their health and transition into the world.

Why Families Choose Delayed Cord Clamping

A Natural Boost of Blood Volume

Delaying the clamp can give your newborn up to 30% more blood volume. For many babies, that extra oxygen and nutrients provide a smoother start outside the womb.

Stronger Iron Levels

Babies who experience delayed clamping often have higher iron reserves, lowering their risk of iron-deficiency anemia in the first year. Since iron fuels healthy brain growth, this can make a meaningful difference.

Easier Transition to Life Outside the Womb

The additional blood flow helps your baby’s lungs and circulatory system adjust to breathing on their own, easing their first moments earthside.

Possible Long-Term Benefits

Some research even hints that DCC may support improved developmental outcomes later in childhood. While studies are ongoing, many families see this as another reason to consider the practice.

What to Keep in Mind

Jaundice

With more blood comes a higher chance of jaundice — a yellowing of the skin caused by elevated bilirubin levels. Most cases are mild and resolve on their own, but some babies may need treatment. Knowing this ahead of time can ease worry if your baby’s skin changes color.

Preterm Infants

For babies born prematurely, doctors sometimes need to act quickly. In those cases, immediate clamping may be safer so your baby can receive urgent medical attention. It’s important to discuss your preferences and your baby’s needs with your care team.

Hospital Policies

Not every hospital supports delayed cord clamping, or they may have restrictions. Bringing up your wishes during prenatal visits — and having them written into your birth plan — helps ensure your voice is honored.

Voices from Families

Some parents describe DCC as empowering — giving them an extra moment of connection before the cord was cut. Others shared that unexpected complications made it impossible, leaving them disappointed but also grateful their baby’s health came first.

These stories remind us that birth doesn’t always go exactly as planned, and flexibility is part of the journey. Still, having your preferences named and respected matters deeply.

Questions to Bring to Your Provider

What are this hospital’s policies on delayed cord clamping?

Are there special risks to consider for my baby?

How can we make sure my wishes are respected, even if unexpected events occur?

Final Thoughts

Delayed cord clamping offers powerful benefits, from stronger iron levels to a gentler start for your baby. It also comes with considerations like jaundice risk and hospital policies that may affect your choice.

At Kindroot Doula Collective, we believe being informed is empowering. Whether you decide to delay cord clamping or not, what matters most is that the decision reflects your family’s values and your baby’s needs — and that you feel seen, heard, and supported every step of the way.