Why Delayed Cord Clamping Matters—The Benefits You Need to Know

You’re getting closer to meeting your baby, and you’re making decisions that will shape their birth and transition into the world. One of the most powerful, evidence-backed choices you can make? Delayed cord clamping (DCC).

I know, I know—it’s such a small thing, right? Just waiting a couple of extra minutes before cutting the cord?

But here’s the thing: those few minutes can make a lifelong difference.

Why Does Delayed Cord Clamping Matter?

When babies are born, a third of their total blood volume is still in the placenta. That blood is packed with oxygen, iron, stem cells, and immune-boosting components—all meant for your baby.

Cutting the cord too soon interrupts this natural transfer, leaving your baby with less blood than they were meant to have. But by waiting—even just 60 seconds to a few minutes—you’re ensuring they get everything they need to transition smoothly.

The Benefits of Delayed Cord Clamping

• Increases oxygen levels & circulation—Baby gets all the oxygen-rich blood they need for a strong start.

• Boosts iron stores—Reducing the risk of anemia for up to 6 months postpartum.

• Supports brain development—By improving cerebral oxygenation (oxygen levels reaching the brain).

• Transfers stem cells—Which help with organ repair, immune function, and long-term health.

• Improves blood pressure & stability—Helping babies regulate their systems after birth.

• May improve breastfeeding success—Some studies suggest that babies who get their full cord blood latch and feed better.

Protecting Your Baby from Common Newborn Complications

Not only does DCC provide a stronger foundation for growth, but it also reduces the risk of serious complications, especially for preterm babies:

🚫 Intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH)—Lowering the risk of brain bleeds.

🚫 Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC)—Reducing the likelihood of this serious intestinal condition.

How Long Should You Wait?

This is where birth providers can have wildly different opinions on what counts as “delayed” cord clamping.

⏳ Some say 60 seconds is enough.

⏳ Others recommend 90 seconds for additional benefits.

⏳ Many parents choose to “wait for white”—meaning the cord stops pulsing and turns pale, signaling that all the blood has transferred to baby.

If you’re wondering, “What’s the best choice?” I always say: the longer you wait, the more benefits your baby gets.

But What About Jaundice?

You might have heard that DCC increases the risk of jaundice—but as we covered in the previous post, this is often misunderstood.

Yes, babies who receive full cord blood naturally have slightly higher bilirubin levels, but that’s because their bodies are adjusting as nature intended. In over 90% of cases, jaundice never requires treatment.

Instead of cutting the cord early to “prevent jaundice,” the better approach is to support baby’s natural ability to clear bilirubin through breastfeeding, skin-to-skin, and gentle monitoring.

What’s the Takeaway?

Your baby’s blood belongs to them. Not to the placenta, not to a lab, not to a routine hospital protocol.

DCC is a simple, evidence-backed way to:

✔ Give your baby a better start.

✔ Support their long-term health.

✔ Ensure they get what nature intended.

At the end of the day, you are the best person to decide what’s right for your baby.

But if you’re looking for reassurance? You’re already making the best choice—because you’re educating yourself and trusting your instincts.

And I’m always here if you need to talk through it. You’ve got this.