Husband touching baby before cord is cut

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08/12/2024

Question

Hello,
My husband and I are expecting a baby and I plan to have a vaginal birth. I am writing down my birth plan and would like to be skin–to–skin with the baby as soon as she is here. This would mean that the cord connecting us might only be cut later on. Can my husband (who would like to support me in the delivery room) touch the baby or hold the baby when she is still attached to me? Thank you in advance!

Answer

Bsha’ah tovah!
We consulted with a midwife to answer this question.
Delayed cord clamping usually takes place between 1-4 minutes after birth. The cord is not long enough for your husband to hold the baby at that point. However, it is questionable whether a placenta on the verge of being detached is really considered part of your body. Therefore, your husband may touch the baby before the cord is cut, taking care not to touch you. You should also take care to remain covered (with a sheet or hospital gown) in his presence.
Please feel free to get back to us with any further questions.
BHatzlacha!

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