During birth, even small details matter, including how the umbilical cord is closed after it is cut. In recent years, more parents have become interested in using umbilical cord ties instead of the plastic clamps that hospitals have used for decades.
Whichever you choose, you may also want to think about delayed (deferred) cord clamping. NICE recommends waiting at least 1 minute before clamping the cord in most healthy babies, which allows extra blood to pass from the placenta to your baby.
Umbilical cord clamps
Cord clamps are the standard choice in most hospitals. They are usually made of plastic and seal the cord when it is cut. The clamp stays on until the stump dries and falls off naturally, usually 1 to 2 weeks after birth, although some midwives remove it after a few days once the cord has dried.
Benefits for healthcare professionals:
- Easy to apply: Clamps are quick and simple to put on.
- Standardised: Clamps offer a consistent method across different healthcare settings.
- Familiar: Midwives and doctors are well trained in using them, which reduces the risk of mistakes.
Benefits for parents:
- Peace of mind: Clamps are secure and cannot accidentally come undone.
- Low maintenance: They need very little care and stay in place until the cord separates.
Umbilical cord ties
Cord ties are usually made of cotton or another soft material, and they have become more popular as an alternative to clamps. Parents normally bring their own ties to the birth. If you would like to use one, talk to your midwife beforehand: check your hospital’s policy, and make sure the tie is suitable (for example, sterilised or able to be sterilised) and that your midwife is happy to tie it securely.
Benefits:
- Soft and light: A tie is softer and less bulky than a plastic clamp, so it is less likely to catch on clothing or nappies.
- Personal touch: Many parents love that ties come in different colours and designs, or can be handmade, adding a personal touch to the birth.
- More eco-friendly: Most cord ties are made from natural fibres such as cotton, which is biodegradable, and they avoid single-use plastic.
Conclusion: making informed choices
Choosing between a cord tie and a clamp comes down to personal preference, your hospital’s policy and any medical considerations. Both do the same job of sealing the cord, and each has its own advantages.
By making informed choices and including them in your birth preferences, you can take an active part in shaping your birth experience from the very first moments of your baby’s life.
