A study on delayed cord clamping and early skin-to-skin contact and its effect on maternal health

Abstract

Before the mid-1950s, Early Cord Clamping (ECC) meant clamping the umbilical cord within one minute of birth. Delayed Cord Clamping (DCC), on the other hand, involved clamping the cord more than five minutes after birth. After birth, because of noticing changes in blood volume and the absence of clear guidance on the best timing, early cord clamping became a usual practice, typically happening within 15-20 seconds of birth. The objective of the study is to identify the effects of DCC and early skin-to-skin contact on mother’s physiological parameters, breastfeeding behaviour, and post-partum haemorrhage compared to Early Cord Clamping. A group of 300 mothers and their newborns were studied after the mothers agreed to participate. The mothers were split into two groups, each with 150 participants. Group A experienced DCC and ESS contact, while Group B had Early Cord Clamping. The study's results showed similar findings in both groups regarding the average Hb level and maternal blood loss. Postpartum haemorrhage was less among DCC compared to early group with significant difference was observed. This study discovered that DCC with ESSC has a positive impact on preventing postpartum haemorrhage. This is achieved through improved breastfeeding and bonding. The study found that the side effects of DCC and ESSC are not significant. So, DCC and ESSC should be practiced in term uncomplicated deliveries.