Re: [ozmidwifery] physiological third stage

[Mary Murphy]

Linda wrote:"Can some one tell me can there be a pulse in the umbilical cord if the separation of the placenta is complete.   Last night all the signs of separation ie. show, cord lengthening etc cord contiued to pulse.  My thoughts were that this doesnt happen."  My experience has been that this is a reflex "loop" pulse from the baby's heartbeat down the cord.  the best place to find out is to feel the cord right down at the vagina.  My experience has been that the cord may be pulsing further up, but when separated, it has stopped near the vagins.  Not very scientific I am afraid, but a guideline.  MM