Umbilical cord milking, also known as UCM, is a practice that involves gently squeezing the umbilical cord to facilitate the flow of more blood from the placenta to the newborn baby. This is done before clamping and cutting the cord. The following is a rundown of the potential advantages of milking the umbilical cord, along with some things to take into consideration:
The Possible Advantages:
UCM can enhance the amount of iron-rich red blood cells passed from the placenta to the newborn, increasing the number of iron stores. Particularly advantageous for premature infants who are in danger of developing iron deficiency anemia is the fact that this happens.
Studies have shown that ultra-continuous monitoring (UCM) may increase blood flow and oxygen delivery to the baby’s organs, which may, in turn, reduce the risk of issues such as hypoxia (low oxygen levels) and hypothermia (low body temperature) associated with newborns.
While there is rising evidence for the potential benefits of UCM, particularly in premature babies, additional research is required to understand its long-term consequences properly.
Reduced Requirement for Transfusions: The increased blood volume obtained through UCM may lessen the requirement for blood transfusions in some premature infants.
Considerations of Vital Importance:
While there is rising evidence for the potential benefits of UCM, particularly in premature babies, additional research is required to understand its long-term consequences properly. This research is now being conducted.
The use of UCM is not always recommended because it may not be appropriate for all births, particularly those with complications. It is essential for healthcare industry specialists to evaluate the scenario and determine whether or not UCM is acceptable.
Given the possibility of an increase in the risk of infection or blood clots, it is important to take safety precautions when performing UCM procedures. They should only be carried out by medical specialists who have received proper training.
In the procedure known as umbilical cord squeezing (UCM), the healthcare provider manually squeezes the umbilical cord multiple times.
Contrast with the Delayed Cord Clamping Practice:
Delayed Cord Clamping: Another method for increasing blood volume in newborns is called delayed cord clamping. This method involves clamping and cutting the umbilical cord a few minutes after birth rather than immediately starting the process.
Both umbilical cord milking (UCM) and delayed cord clamping (DCC) are treated to give the infant more blood from the placenta. These procedures increase the baby’s blood volume and iron stores at delivery, which can have significant positive effects on the baby’s health.
In the procedure known as umbilical cord squeezing (UCM), the healthcare provider manually squeezes the umbilical cord multiple times, forcing the blood from the placenta into the newborn’s body before clamping and cutting the chord. This method facilitates the passage of blood from the placenta to the newborn in a controlled manner in a very short amount of time.
DCC, on the other hand, is characterized by the delay in clamping and cutting the umbilical cord for a predetermined amount of time, commonly between thirty seconds and three minutes after the baby’s birth. This allows the blood to be transferred from the placenta to the infant in a more progressive and natural manner as the baby’s circulatory system transitions into control.
UCM and DCC are evidence-based interventions that optimize the physiological transition from prenatal to neonatal life.
DCC can improve the baby’s hematological state and potentially improve various health outcomes, such as lowering the risk of anemia and enhancing neurological development. This is because DCC obtains increased blood volume, and iron stores can be acquired through the process.
UCM and DCC are evidence-based interventions that optimize the physiological transition from prenatal to neonatal life. Their ultimate goal is to provide the infant with the best possible start in life.
Choice is determined by circumstances and the decision of whether to execute umbilical cord severing (UCM), delayed cord clamping, or neither is determined by several criteria, including the gestational age of the infant, the health state of the baby, and the circumstances surrounding the delivery.
A team of medical professionals will evaluate each method’s potential dangers and advantages and then recommend the one that is most appropriate for each individual birth.
For anyone interested in reading more, here are some resources:
Umbilical cord milking is beneficial for preterm newborns, according to the American Pregnancy Association, which may be found on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/amer_pregnancy/p/C8M7mdDt1UL/
Frontiers in Pediatrics addresses the benefits and risks associated with umbilical cord milking and can be found at: https://www.3-port.si/Frontiers-Umbilical-cord-milking-benefits-and-hazards-2483682.html
Keep in mind that it is essential to have a conversation with your physician about the advantages and potential drawbacks of umbilical cord milking, particularly if you are contemplating a birth plan that incorporates this treatment.
