EXPERT OPINION

Q I’ve heard delayed cord clamping is better for my baby. If I delay cord clamping, is it still possible to collect stem cells?

Each case varies, as each birthing situation is unique, and the final decision must be made by the obstetrician or midwife at the time of delivery. “Delayed cord clamping can be beneficial to your baby, but delaying for too long – for the cord to stop pulsating – carries the risk of there not being enough blood for collection,” says Shelley Bredin from Netcells. ”Provided you are not iron deficient and your baby is at term, delaying cord clamping by 30 to 60 seconds should ensure a safe outcome and allow for adequate cord blood collection.”

Q What are the benefits of delayed cord clamping?

“For premature babies born before 34 weeks of pregnancy, clinical evidence has shown that it reduces complications,” Shelley explains. ”The immediate benefits of delayed cord clamping for prem babies are increases in blood volume and iron levels.” According to the international Cord Blood Association, “Several obstetric organisations in the USA, the UK and Canada have recently recommended a delay of 30 to 60 seconds between delivery and umbilical cord clamping in healthy, full-term babies. It is believed that delayed clamping may have a beneficial effect in the newborn.” Because delayed clamping can reduce the volume of stem cells remaining in the cord, Celvi’s Erna West says, “If your baby’s cord blood is being stored for transplant of another family member with leukaemia, delayed clamping is not advised.”