Because iron deficiency during pregnancy is so common and so difficult to prevent without supplementation, the case for delayed cord clamping is strong. To date, six studies have confirmed that when doctors or midwives delay the clamping of the umbilical cord by two to three minutes, an infant’s risk of iron deficiency at the age of four to six months significantly drops. It’s possible, then, that by allowing this blood and iron to pass from mother to child right after birth—by letting a mother give her baby one more gift before physically separating them—“we can affect their health throughout their lifespan,” Judith Mercer says. Yet obstetrical care providers say that the practice is still rare, and that umbilical cords are typically clamped immediately after birth unless a parent specifically requests otherwise.

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Mercer is convinced of the universal benefits of delayed cord clamping. And the practice is not only gaining acceptance but gaining endorsement by some obstetric health organizations due, in part, to her work and advocacy. It could be a while before all obstetrical practitioners change their routine practice, however, so Mercer plans to continue designing, conducting, and publishing studies in the hopes of turning the medical tide. She will also have to prove that the benefits of delayed cord clamping outweigh any potential risks.

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