Impact of Placental Cord Drainage in Reducing Duration of Third Stage of Labour and Postpartum Blood Loss

Abstract

Background: The third stage of labour is a critical period during which effective placental separation and uterine contraction are essential to minimize maternal blood loss. Placental cord drainage is a simple, non-invasive technique that may facilitate placental delivery and reduce postpartum blood loss.

Objective: To evaluate the effect of placental cord drainage on the duration of the third stage of labour and blood loss following vaginal delivery.

Methods: This prospective comparative study included 400 women undergoing vaginal delivery, allocated into a placental cord drainage group (n=200) and a control group (n=200). In the study group, the placental end of the clamped and cut umbilical cord was unclamped and allowed to drain until blood flow ceased, whereas it remained clamped in controls. The duration of the third stage and blood loss were compared between groups.

Results: Mean duration of the third stage was significantly shorter in the drainage group than in controls (3.56±1.33 vs 5.06±1.90 minutes; p<0.0001). Mean blood loss was also significantly lower (187±109.1 vs 308.95±172.35 mL; p<0.0001).

Conclusion: Placental cord drainage significantly reduced third-stage duration and postpartum blood loss and may serve as a simple adjunct to third-stage management.