Evaluating Delayed Versus Immediate Umbilical Cord Clamping in Preterm Infants Born Between 32 and 37 Weeks Impact on Early Neonatal Health Outcomes in a Tunisian Maternity Center

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating whether delayed umbilical cord clamping improves early health outcomes compared with immediate clamping in preterm infants born between 32 and 37 weeks. Preterm babies are at increased risk of complications, and the timing of cord clamping may affect blood volume, iron levels, and neonatal adaptation after birth. This study is conducted in a tertiary maternity center in Tunisia to better understand these effects. Participants are assigned to one of two groups delayed cord clamping, where the umbilical cord is clamped at least 30 seconds after birth allowing continued placental blood flow or immediate cord clamping, where the cord is clamped within seconds after birth without delay. Both procedures are done right after delivery with standard neonatal stabilization and care provided accordingly. During the study, newborns will be monitored for early outcomes such as respiratory status, need for resuscitation, hemoglobin levels, and neonatal morbidities including anemia, necrotizing enterocolitis, and intraventricular hemorrhage. Researchers will track neonatal mortality within 7 days or until hospital discharge, length of NICU stay, and other health indicators. Participation lasts through early neonatal hospitalization and follow-up assessments may occur up to several months after birth.

Delayed Versus Immediate Cord Clamping in Preterm Birth