The Dangers of Umbilical Cord Prolapse upon Delivery

An umbilical cord prolapse is another dangerous complication of delivery. In this condition, the cord blocks the cervical canal of the mother. This happens when the amniotic membrane is ruptured and the head of the fetus does not reach yet in the pelvis. As a result, this impedes the blood circulation going to the baby. In rare case, it will happen also even if the bag of water does not rupture yet. It occurs in about 2 in 2000 deliveries.

This problem usually occurs in twins especially after the birth of the first baby. It also occurs in fetus in breech or in a transverse position because it allows the cord to enter the cervix. It may happen also when there is much amniotic fluid because it may bring the cord in the birth canal.

A prolapsed cord puts the baby in jeopardy. An abnormal heart rate of the fetus is indicative of a cord prolapse. Immediate intervention should be done to save the baby or else the baby will suffer due to oxygen deprivation.

The intervention depends on the position of the baby, and the stage of labor. The mother is told to get the pressure off the cord by keeping her hips elevated or turning to a knee-chest position. If birth is not yet possible, the physician will also order a drug to lessen the mother's contraction. If the baby is already down in the birth canal, the doctor will bring the baby out using vacuum or a forceps delivery. Cesarean section is sometimes the best and safest choice. The baby will then be resuscitated to prevent organ complication. Sometimes the fetus which is in breech position can still be delivered vaginally.

In cases the mother is at home, an ambulance must be called and the rescuer must relieve the pressure on the cord until they arrive in the hospital.

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