Management of Placental Transfusion to Neonates After Delivery

Abstract

(Obstet Gynecol. 2022;139:121–137. doi: 10.1097/AOG.0000000000004625) Delayed cord clamping allows continued placental flow from mother to baby for a short amount of time following delivery. Evidence-based research shows preterm neonates before 37 weeks gestation particularly benefit from delayed cord clamping due to their increased risk for morbidity and mortality. Positive outcomes of lengthened placental transfusion after delivery include decreased need for blood transfusions and reduced mortality. Term neonates benefit as well, so the updated recommendation is to delay clamping by 30 to 60 seconds if appropriate at all deliveries.