A review of benefits of cord milking over delayed cord clamping in the preterm infant and future directions of research

Purpose of review: The recommended method of handling the umbilical cord has undergone a complete 360° turn over the years and current knowledge and research has led the direction to delayed clamping and cord milking. This practice has also been supported by American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ACOG) in 2012. This review is a summary of current evidence on delayed cord clamping (DCC), umbilical cord milking (UCM), and comparison between the two and future directions.

Recent findings: Multiple studies have been published establishing the safety of umbilical cord milking. Data comparing UCM to DCC favor milking specifically in terms of improved systemic perfusion and higher hemoglobin concentrations.

Summary: UCM is emerging as a safe, quick alternative to DCC and more advantageous especially among premature infants and those delivered via cesarean section.