Delayed Cord Clamping: What It Is, Benefits, Risks & Timing

Delayed cord clamping (DCC) may sound confusing, but it’s simply the practice of waiting a little while before clamping and cutting your baby’s umbilical cord after birth. Traditionally, umbilical cords are clamped and cut almost immediately, but with DCC, there’s a short delay that allows more of your baby’s own blood to transfer from the placenta—a gentle, natural process that can have real benefits.

The practice has gained popularity in recent years; in one study, 50% of 2,000 hospitals reported that most healthy babies received DCC.

Supporters say that the practice can lead to higher hemoglobin levels and stronger iron stores for babies. However, there are also considerations, like a slightly increased risk of jaundice. Below, we explain DCC, its benefits, and share general guidelines.

What Is Delayed Cord Clamping?

Put simply, delayed cord clamping means waiting 30 seconds to 3 minutes before clamping and cutting the cord after birth. During this time, your baby continues to receive oxygen-rich blood and nutrients from the placenta.

Research indicates that this brief delay can help strengthen your baby's blood volume and iron stores, which are particularly crucial during the first weeks of life. It’s a slight shift in routine, and the benefits can be excellent for your baby’s health.

Early vs Delayed Cord Clamping

The difference between early vs delayed cord clamping comes down to timing:

• Early: Labor and delivery staff usually clamp the umbilical cord within 15 to 30 seconds of delivery
• Delayed: In DCC, there is a 60-180 second delay in clamping and cutting the cord

The right timing depends on your baby’s needs, your birth plan, and your delivery experience. Sometimes immediate clamping is medically necessary, but when it’s safe to wait, DCC offers meaningful advantages. Both options are considered safe, with the choice depending on your baby’s condition, birth setting, and healthcare provider’s recommendations.

DCC Guidelines

So, how long should cord clamping be delayed? The answer isn’t clear-cut. Several credible organizations have provided slightly different guidance, which we’ll review. For example, in the UK, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) states that the cord shouldn’t be clamped earlier than 1 minute after birth unless there are concerns about cord integrity or the baby’s heartbeat. 

World Health Organization (WHO)

WHO recommends delaying cord clamping for 1–3 minutes in most births so babies can receive extra oxygen-rich blood and nutrients. There are a few exceptions:

• If your baby needs help breathing right away: The cord may be clamped sooner to begin ventilation.
• If your baby isn’t breathing on their own: Gentle stimulation (like rubbing the back) may happen before clamping and starting support.

In general, WHO supports DCC for almost all births—unless immediate resuscitation is needed.

American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG)

ACOG also supports DCC for both full-term and preterm babies:

• For full-term babies: Waiting 30–60 seconds before clamping can improve hemoglobin and iron levels, supporting healthy growth and development.
• For preterm babies: The benefits are even greater—better circulation, more stable red blood cell levels, and lower risks of serious conditions like intestinal infection or brain bleeding.

ACOG notes that DCC does not increase the risk of postpartum hemorrhage for mothers. While there’s a slightly higher chance of newborn jaundice, it’s typically mild and easily managed with standard light therapy.

Extended Delayed Cord Clamping

Some parents choose to wait even longer to cut the umbilical cord—3 to 5 minutes or more. While there’s less research on extended DCC, in one metadata review, researchers found that delaying at least 120 seconds reduced the in-hospital mortality rates of preterm infants (<37 weeks).

Alternative childbirth approaches, like lotus birth (where the cord remains attached until it naturally separates), fall under extended DCC. If you’re curious about this option, speak with your care team far in advance so you're aware of considerations such as hygiene and infection prevention. 

Although there’s less research into extended delayed cord clamping, the available evidence suggests there are significant risks of infection and sepsis for the baby, compared to standard DCC.

Benefits of Delayed Cord Clamping

The benefits of delayed cord clamping for term babies are well-researched and have very positive outcomes. By waiting, your baby receives increased blood from the placenta, which raises hemoglobin levels and builds up iron stores. Higher iron levels in newborns can lower the risk of anemia and support brain development during the first year. These placental transfusion benefits also help your baby’s circulation adjust after birth.

Late Preterm Babies

The benefits of delayed cord clamping for late preterm babies (born between 34 and 36 weeks) are significant. These babies often have lower iron stores and blood volume, which hinders their body's ability to deliver oxygen. The extra placental blood can reduce the risk of anemia and improve cardiovascular stability. These cord clamping techniques can help your preterm baby adjust to life outside the womb.

Preterm Babies

For very early preterm babies, DCC has some of the most substantial evidence. Studies show that waiting even a short while can reduce the risk of brain bleeding, serious bowel complications, and the need for blood transfusions—all while improving blood pressure and oxygen levels. These delayed clamping neonatal outcomes show why cord clamping benefits for premature infants are so highly valued in neonatal care.

Risks and Disadvantages of Delayed Cord Clamping

While DCC has some fantastic, well-studied benefits, there are risks to consider. The most common cord clamping risks are:

• A slightly higher chance of newborn jaundice, which can mean your baby needs to have phototherapy treatment under special lights. 
• A small chance of polycythaemia (too many red blood cells)
• In rare situations, logistical issues such as sanitation problems, labor emergencies, or blood loss may require emergency care.

These concerns are usually manageable with proper preparation and routine newborn monitoring; however, it is essential to be aware of the possible disadvantages so you can make an informed decision.

Delayed Cord Clamping in Special Situations

Delayed Cord Clamping During C-Sections

Yes, delayed cord clamping can absolutely be done during a C-section. As long as both you and your baby are stable, your team can usually wait 30–60 seconds before cutting the cord. ACOG supports this approach regardless of delivery method, and it’s becoming more common in surgical births.

Cord clamping during caesarean may involve additional adjustments, but as long as you discuss in advance with your team, it should be possible.

Delayed Cord Clamping in Emergency Situations

In emergencies, your care team’s priority will always be safety. Sometimes that means clamping the cord right away to begin immediate care. That said, in some emergency scenarios, your team may still be able to delay for a short period (~20 to 30 seconds) to allow for a small transfusion. And it’s ok if you cannot practice DCC - remember: what matters most is that you and your baby are healthy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can You Delay Cord Clamping for an Hour?

Although there is limited evidence supporting the benefits of extended DCC, some parents opt for it. There’s also an increased risk of neonatal jaundice, and keep in mind that most blood transfer happens within the first 1–3 minutes.

Does Delayed Cord Clamping Increase the Risk of Jaundice?

Delayed cord clamping may increase the risk of jaundice in newborns. This is because DCC allows more red blood cells to transfer from the placenta, so as these cells break down, babies might have higher bilirubin (a pigment formed in the liver by the breakdown of hemoglobin) levels. However, most cases are mild and easily managed with standard phototherapy treatment.

Can It Be Done During a C-Section?

Absolutely! Delayed cord clamping can still be done during a C-section, as long as both you and your baby are doing well. In fact, back in 2017, ACOG officially recommended it for full-term babies, regardless of the method of delivery.

Is It Safe for All Births?

Delayed cord clamping is not always safe for all births. Preterm twins who share a placenta usually need the cord clamping to be done immediately after a C-section to reduce the risk of complications. Emergency or high-risk situations may also mean that clamping the cord immediately is the safest medical choice for both you and your baby.

Summary and Key Takeaways

Delayed cord clamping is a gentle, natural way to give your baby a healthy start. It’s now standard practice in many hospitals and birth centers, and supported by leading medical organizations worldwide. Here’s a quick recap:

• DCC means waiting 30 seconds to 3 minutes before clamping the umbilical cord.
• It can boost your baby’s iron levels, circulation, and brain development.
• Risks are mild and manageable, such as temporary jaundice.
• DCC can be practiced during vaginal births, C-sections, and sometimes even emergencies.

Talk with your care team ahead of time to include DCC in your birth plan. A short wait can make a big difference in helping your baby start life strong and healthy.