30-Second Versus Pulsation-Based Delayed Cord Clamping in Term Newborns

This randomized controlled trial aims to compare the effects of 30-second cord clamping and pulsation-based delayed cord clamping on neonatal metabolic adaptation in term newborns delivered vaginally. Eligible mother-newborn pairs will be randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to either 30-second cord clamping or pulsation-based delayed cord clamping. In the intervention group, the umbilical cord will be clamped after spontaneous cessation of cord pulsation, whereas in the control group, the cord will be clamped 30 seconds after birth. The primary outcome is umbilical arterial lactate level. Secondary outcomes include umbilical arterial pH, pCO2, pO2, HCO3-, base deficit, 1- and 5-minute Apgar scores, and maternal postpartum blood loss.