Delayed Cord Clamping and Lotus Birth: Benefits and How-To
Why We Say… WAIT!
Delayed cord clamping and lotus births have become popular choices for expectant parents. Both practices involve delaying the cutting of the umbilical cord after birth. While delayed cord clamping involves waiting a few minutes to cut the cord, lotus births take it a step further, leaving the placenta attached until it naturally falls off. In this blog post, we will discuss the benefits of delayed cord clamping and lotus births, as well as how to do them.
Benefits of Delayed Cord Clamping
Delayed cord clamping is the practice of waiting a few minutes after birth before clamping and cutting the umbilical cord. This delay allows the baby to continue receiving blood from the placenta, which is rich in iron, stem cells, and other important nutrients. The benefits of delayed cord clamping include:
Increased iron stores: Delayed cord clamping can increase a baby's iron stores by up to 60%. Iron is essential for the production of hemoglobin, which carries oxygen in the blood.
Better immune system: The stem cells and other immune-boosting properties found in the placental blood can help strengthen a baby's immune system.
Improved brain development: The iron and other nutrients in the placental blood can also support healthy brain development.
Benefits of Lotus Birth
Lotus birth is the practice of leaving the placenta attached to the baby until it falls off naturally, usually within three to ten days after birth. The benefits of lotus birth include:
Slower transition: Lotus birth can provide a slower transition for the baby from the womb to the outside world, which can be less stressful.
Natural detachment: Allowing the placenta to detach naturally can be a more gentle and natural process for the baby.
Spiritual connection: For some parents, lotus birth can be a spiritual experience that fosters a deeper connection between parent and child.
How to Do Delayed Cord Clamping
Delayed cord clamping is a simple process that can be done by your healthcare provider or a birth attendant. Here are the steps involved:
Allow the cord to pulse: After the baby is born, wait until the umbilical cord has stopped pulsing before clamping it.
Position the baby: Place the baby on the mother's chest or a nearby surface, with the cord still attached.
Wait: Wait at least 2-3 minutes before clamping and cutting the cord.
How to Do Lotus Birth
Lotus birth involves leaving the placenta attached to the baby until it falls off naturally. Here are the steps involved:
Keep the placenta clean: After the baby is born, keep the placenta clean and dry. You can wrap it in a muslin cloth or put it in a container.
Keep the baby close: Keep the baby close to the placenta, using a sling or carrier.
Wait: Wait until the placenta detaches naturally, usually within three to ten days after birth.
In conclusion, delayed cord clamping and lotus births are both options for parents who want a more natural and gentle birth experience. Delayed cord clamping can provide important benefits for the baby, including increased iron stores and a stronger immune system. Lotus birth can provide a slower transition for the baby and a deeper spiritual connection for some parents. Consult with your healthcare provider or a birth attendant to discuss whether delayed cord clamping or lotus birth is right for you and your baby.
Disclaimer: The information provided on this website is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed on this website are solely those of the original authors and other contributors. These views and opinions do not necessarily represent those of Momentous Doula Care.