Study of Delayed Cord Clamping and Early Skin-to-Skin Contact for Premature Infants Born at 30 to 34 Weeks Gestation

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating a new method of caring for premature infants born between 300 and 346 weeks of gestation to see if delayed cord clamping combined with early skin-to-skin contact with a parent improves bonding. This prospective trial compares infants cared for traditionally with those cared for using the new method, aiming to understand effects on bonding, infant growth, neurological development, stress levels, breastfeeding, and parental mood. The study is conducted at multiple hospitals in Sweden and includes a qualitative component interviewing parents about their experiences. The new care method involves delaying cord clamping for more than three minutes and providing early skin-to-skin contact, even if the infant requires breathing support during this time. The traditional method involves early cord clamping and moving the infant to a resuscitation table away from the mother. Two groups of infants and their parents are enrolled one before introducing the new method, and one after its introduction. The study collects data from clinical registers and performs various tests and questionnaires to assess outcomes. Participants will be evaluated through questionnaires on bonding and depression at multiple time points up to six months corrected age, and infant neurological development up to 48 months corrected age. Saliva tests measure stress hormones, and vital signs are monitored during the first hours after birth. Blood tests, placental blood measurements, and clinical data on respiratory support and complications are recorded. Parents experiences are explored through interviews. Data analysis includes statistical tests to compare groups and adjust for factors like gestational age and birth weight.

Preterm DElayed Cord Clamping and Early Skin-to-Skin Contact: PreDECESS