Technical Update No. 472: The Resuscitative Use of Intact Umbilical Cord Milking for Non-Vigorous Late Preterm (≥350 weeks of gestation) and Term Infants

Summary

This SOGC Technical Update assesses the benefits and risks of intact umbilical cord milking in non-vigorous late preterm and term infants from 35 weeks' gestation. It considers neonatal mortality and morbidity, including hypoxic-ischaemic encephalopathy, the need for resuscitation and cardiorespiratory support, alongside adverse outcomes such as jaundice requiring phototherapy. Evidence was graded using GRADE, and the update suggests intact cord milking may be considered when an infant remains non-vigorous after brief deferred clamping, stimulation and warmth. It is aimed at obstetric care providers, midwives and nurses, but is directly relevant to neonatal teams attending deliveries.

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