The Amazing First 90 Seconds: Why Waiting to Cut the Cord Matters

Hey there, soon-to-be parents! Let's talk about something super important that happens right after your little one arrives: umbilical cord clamping. Did you know that those first 90 seconds can make a HUGE difference in your baby's health?

It might surprise you to learn that in many hospitals, the umbilical cord is cut almost immediately after birth. But what if I told you that by waiting just a little longer – about 90 seconds – you could give your baby a significant boost?

Here's the deal: at birth, about a third of your baby's blood is still in the placenta and umbilical cord. When the cord is cut too soon, your baby misses out on receiving this vital blood, which is packed with amazing stuff like red blood cells, iron, stem cells, and white blood cells. These are the building blocks for a healthy immune system, brain development, and overall well-being!

Think of it like this: you're giving your baby a natural head start by allowing them to receive all the nutrients and cells they're supposed to get right from the start. It's like a biological gold mine!

So, what can you do? It's simple: Choosing to have your baby with a Midwifery Practice ensures delayed umbilical cord clamping, also known as optimal cord clamping is automatic. Some providers aim to wait until the cord stops pulsing before it's clamped. Remember, it’s those first 90 seconds can make a world of difference.