Abstract
Objective This study aimed to investigate whether umbilical cord milking (UCM) prevents and
controls anemia in preterm infants, as compared with immediate cord clamping (ICC).
Study Design Pregnant women delivering at <34 weeks' gestation in four hospitals were randomly
assigned to undergo UCM or ICC from July 2017 to June 2019. Hematological parameters
and iron status were collected and analyzed as primary outcomes at 24 hours, 1 week,
2 weeks, and 6 months after delivery.
Results Neonates receiving UCM had significant higher levels of hemoglobin (Hb), hematocrit,
and serum iron (p < 0.05). Lower prevalence of anemia and lower need for transfusions were noted in
UCM group. Although UCM was associated with prolonged duration of phototherapy, the
maximum levels of bilirubin were similar between two groups (p > 0.05).
Conclusion UCM is an effective intervention to help preterm infants experience less anemia with
the potential to increase blood volume, as seen by higher Hb levels and more enhanced
iron stores.
Keywords
umbilical cord milking - anemia - placental transfusion
