What Happens If You Don’t Cut The Umbilical Cord
The umbilical cord constitutes the factual link between the mother and her baby. Thanks to this thread, the baby is nourished and oxygenated daily.
It is, therefore, essential for the mother and her child. After childbirth, should it be broken or kept? The World Health Organization’s advice indicates a previously unknown procedure to the general public.
The act of cutting the umbilical cord is a well-established medical ritual after the birth of a baby. It has been practiced since the existence of the first humans. But what would happen if this cord was not cut?
This question raises several issues, ranging from the role of the mother or parents in this symbolic act to the impact on the newborn’s health.
Let’s tackle this complex and fascinating subject together.
The Role and Importance of the Umbilical Cord for the Newborn
The umbilical cord is vital to the developing fetus. It connects the fetus and the placenta, allowing the circulation of nutrients and oxygen. Three blood vessels, two arteries, and a vein are protected by Wharton’s jelly, a solid and elastic substance. After birth, the umbilical cord loses its primary function but still plays an essential role.
Umbilical cord blood is particularly rich in stem cells. These cells can potentially treat severe illnesses in the baby or other family members. Additionally, the umbilical cord dries and falls off naturally, usually between 10 and 15 days after birth, without causing pain to the newborn.
The Implications of Not Cutting The Umbilical Cord
Not cutting the umbilical cord can have several implications. From a medical perspective, keeping the cord intact for some time post-birth, known as “delayed clamping,” allows for additional placental transfusion. This can improve the infant’s iron status and reduce the risk of certain complications in premature children.
However, leaving the cord intact for too long, as in the case of a “Lotus Birth,” can present risks of infection. For this purpose, the WHO recommends cord clamping approximately one minute after birth. Without proper cutting, the umbilical cord may also remain attached to the baby for an extended time, causing possible complications.
How And When To Cut The Umbilical Cord?
Cutting the umbilical cord is usually done by the doctor or midwife shortly after birth. Previously, the cord was clamped and cut 10 to 15 seconds post-expulsion. However, the WHO recommends waiting a little longer.
Indeed, studies have demonstrated the benefits of delaying this cut, including better blood circulation, an improvement in the baby’s natural immunity, and potentially, in the future, no worries about anemia.
According to this WHO study, delaying clamping after delivery by at least one minute limits the risk of anemia. Further, it is not only this aspect highlighted because the WHO site mentions in other content that delaying clamping promotes the baby’s well-being and provides the child with the proper nutrients necessary for its development.
In some cases, parents may have to cut the cord if the baby is healthy. It is a symbolic gesture marking the physical separation between mother and child.
The cord is cut about 3 or 4 cm from the baby’s belly. The remaining small cord will dry and fall off after a few days, leaving room for the navel. During this time, taking care of the cord is essential to avoid infection.
It should be noted that each situation is unique. In certain conditions, such as complications during childbirth, cord-cutting can be done immediately for the well-being of the baby.
