The golden minute after birth – beyond resuscitation

Abstract

In tackling the unconscionably high neonatal mortality rate much has been done, but much more remains to be done. The 1st minute after birth sets the foundation for the individual's future quality of life, and any intervention which facilitates the smooth transition from the cocooned fetal life to the independent adult life will quickly find worldwide acceptance. However, it is imperative that we also look for resource neutral interventions so that a neonate even in the most resource-challenged setting gets an opportunity to smile. The interventions we have elaborated upon in this article fall in this category. They are simple, easily applied in all settings, and are evidence-based.

Keywords

• delayed cord clamping
• golden minute after birth
• skin-to-skin contact
• umbilical cord milking