Neonatal Anemia in Delayed Umbilical Cord Clamping

Abstract

Objective: To determine the frequency of neonatal anemia in women with
delayed umbilical cord clamping present at CDF hospital Hyderabad.
Methods: This cross-sectional study conducted at Department Obstetrics and
Gynecology, CDF Hospital Hyderabad and enrolled 182 term neonates delivered at
[institution name]. Neonates were categorized based on cord clamping timing: early
(within 60 seconds) and delayed (after 60–180 seconds). Hemoglobin levels were
measured at 24–48 hours of life. Neonatal anemia was defined as hemoglobin less than
14 g/dL. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 23.
Results: Overall 182 term neonates enrolled, 91 were assigned to each group. The
neonatal anemia was significantly more frequent in the Early Cord Clamping (ECC)
group compared to the Delayed Cord Clamping (DCC) group (37.4% vs. 17.6%;
p=0.004, OR=2.78). Mean hemoglobin was significantly higher in the DCC group (17.2
± 1.8 g/dL) versus the ECC group (14.9 ± 2.1 g/dL; p<0.001). Mean hematocrit was
similarly elevated in the DCC group (52.4 ± 5.1% vs. 46.8 ± 5.7%; p<0.001). No
significant difference was observed in rates of neonatal jaundice or polycythemia
between the two groups (p>0.05).
Conclusion: Delayed umbilical cord clamping is a safe and effective strategy for
reducing the frequency of neonatal anemia in term infants. Since delayed cord clamping
increases iron storage after birth, it may help prevent anemia in later infancy.
Keywords: Delayed cord clamping, Neonatal anemia, early cord clamping, hemoglobin