In the precious moments after birth, there’s a quiet yet powerful transition taking place—baby’s journey from womb to world. One gentle, yet profoundly impactful choice parents can make during this time is to delay clamping and cutting the umbilical cord.
What is delayed cord clamping?
Delayed cord clamping simply means waiting before clamping and cutting the umbilical cord—typically 1 to 5 minutes after birth, or until the cord stops pulsating.
Why wait? The benefits are remarkable:
- More Iron Stores
Delaying cord clamping allows more blood (rich in iron and stem cells) to flow from the placenta to the baby. This can significantly improve the baby’s iron levels for up to 6 months after birth—essential for healthy brain development and immunity. - Smoother Cardiovascular Transition
The extra blood helps support the baby’s heart and lungs as they begin to function independently, reducing the risk of breathing difficulties or low blood pressure. - Increased Stem Cells
The blood in the cord is full of stem cells—nature’s healing builders. These support tissue repair, immune development, and overall growth in the early months of life. - Lower Risk of Anaemia
Babies who experience delayed cord clamping are less likely to develop iron-deficiency anaemia, a condition that can impact energy, development, and learning. - Supports Natural Birth Physiology
Honouring this natural process is deeply aligned with a gentle, connected birth experience—offering both physical and emotional benefits to mother and baby.
Things to consider:
Delayed clamping is generally safe for both vaginal and cesarean births. However, it’s always important to discuss your birth preferences with your healthcare provider and include it in your birth plan.
As your baby receives this final gift from the placenta, you too deserve care rooted in love and healing.
Aphrodite’s Garden Mama Care Gift Set
Thoughtfully curated to honour the strength and sensitivity of new motherhood, this all-natural set supports you through birth and postpartum recovery—with plant-based, chemical-free care.
What’s inside:
- Birth Support Oil – With Clary Sage for calm focus & natural contractions
- Perineum Spray – Tones, cools & heals delicate tissue
- Refresh Aromatherapy Roller – Mood-lifting & fatigue easing
- Herbal Sitz Bath – Soothes swelling & inflammation
- Healing Care Oil – Nurtures tears, stitches & scars
A heartfelt gift for every birthing journey.
Shop now at www.aphroditesgarden.co.za
Rooted in South Africa and inspired by the rhythms of womanhood, Aphrodite’s Garden is more than a wellness brand—it’s a heartfelt commitment to women’s holistic care. Whether you’re navigating your first period, embracing motherhood, or moving through menopause, we’re here to walk with you. Every product in our collection is crafted with intention by a qualified woman doctor of complementary and natural medicine. You’ll never find alcohol, synthetic preservatives, or harmful chemicals—just pure, gentle, and effective care designed to honour your body, naturally. Because a woman’s wellbeing is deeply connected to her family, we’ve also lovingly included a baby care and men’s range—crafted with the same purity and care.
- The Powerful Benefits of Delaying the Cutting of the Umbilical Cord - August 15, 2025
