Effect of cord clamping time and cord milking on hematological parameters of the newborn

ABSTRACT

The effect of delaying cord clamping and milking of the umbilical cord on some hematological parameters of the newborn were studied in 100 uncomplicated vaginal deliveries. The results showed that increasing the time of cord clamping beyond the cessation of cord pulsations [i.e. Up to placental separation] together with milking of the cord result in a higher hemoglobin concentration, a higher red cell count, a higher hematocrit percentage and a lower reticulocyte percentage in the newborn. The same practice showed no effect on the white cell count, the mean corpuscular volume, the mean corpuscular hemoglobin, the mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration or the color index. It was suggested that delaying the time of cord clamping beyond placental separation together with milking of the cord should be performed in all uncomplicated vaginal deliveries in order to prevent the occurrence of iron deficiency anemia of the newborn and hence reduce neonatal mortality and morbidity