BBC News reports that early clamping of the umbilical cord straight after birth might be actually harmful.
Studies done have shown that leaving the cord on for up to three minutes might actually helped the baby to increase his/her iron stores and thus cutting down the risks of anaemia. This is particularly true for premature babies.
Early clamping was recommended as guideline by various medical groups as well as the World Health Organization as it was a way to prevent the mother from suffering a haemorrhage immediately after birth. But studies have shown that there was no real benefit to the mother.
However, the report also notes that there are some contrasting views from obstetricians and a little further study might need be carried out before we can come to a proper conclusion.
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