Waiting longer before clamping a newborn baby’s umbilical cord can significantly improve health outcomes, according to an updated evidence review published today by the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG).
The review examines the latest evidence on optimal baby and umbilical cord care in the critical minutes after birth as the baby transitions from life in the womb to life outside.
Dr Alison Wright President of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists said:
“Cord clamping is something that many women and parents to be ask us about, as part of their preparation for birth, and we are delighted to provide this evidence-based information to support them in their informed decision making. Our new paper clearly sets out the benefits of waiting before clamping the umbilical cord rather than clamping immediately and it supports what many clinicians are already doing in practice.”
Based on the latest published evidence, the ‘Care of the Newborn and Cord during the Third Stage of Labour’ Scientific Impact Paper confirms that immediate cord clamping is not routinely recommended. The authors also note that clinical judgement remains essential, as it may be justified in some specific situations, particularly when necessary to protect the health of the mother or the baby.
The RCOG remains absolutely committed to supporting safe maternity care, through its role as an educator: developing the curriculum, raising standards of care through clinical guidance, and supporting clinicians, through exams, professional development courses and events, and support services.
The College also delivers research and quality improvement programmes that contribute to improvements in maternity safety and through its influencing and advocacy activity, continues to push for system wide improvements.
- To read ‘Care of the Newborn and Cord during the Third Stage of Labour’ click here.
- Read the RCOG maternity safety policy position
- RCOG Maternity Safety programme, available here.