Umbilical cord milking-benefits and risks

Area of Science:

• Neonatal Medicine
• Perinatal Care
• Pediatric Physiology

Background:

• Delayed cord clamping (DCC) and umbilical cord milking (UCM) are common methods for placental blood transfer.
• DCC poses risks of hypothermia and delayed resuscitation.
• Umbilical cord milking with resuscitation (UCM-R) and delayed cord clamping with resuscitation (DCC-R) allow immediate resuscitation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the benefits and risks of umbilical cord milking (UCM).
• To explore the safety profile of UCM, especially in preterm neonates.
• To assess UCM as a practical option for non-vigorous and preterm infants.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies on DCC, UCM, and DCC-R.
• Analysis of safety and efficacy data for UCM in various neonatal populations.
• Exploration of ongoing research regarding UCM.

Main Results:

• UCM is considered easier to perform than DCC-R.
• UCM is a potential option for non-vigorous term/near-term and preterm neonates needing respiratory support.
• The safety of UCM, particularly in preterm infants, is still a concern.

Conclusions:

• UCM presents a viable alternative to DCC, offering easier implementation and immediate resuscitation capabilities.
• Further research is crucial to fully establish the safety and efficacy of UCM, especially in vulnerable preterm populations.
• UCM is being considered for widespread adoption, pending further safety data.