Umbilical cord prolapse happens when the umbilical cord slips through the cervix before the baby does. The umbilical cord connects the baby to the placenta, supplying oxygen and nutrients. When it moves ahead of the baby during birth, it can become compressed. This compression can reduce blood flow and oxygen to the baby, making it an emergency.
Cord prolapse is rare, but it requires immediate medical attention to protect the baby’s health. This condition can occur during labor or when the water breaks, especially if the baby’s position is high or breech. It happens in about 1 out of every 300 births, more often with certain risk factors. These factors include multiple babies, too much amniotic fluid, or premature rupture of membranes.
Causes, Risks, and Responses to Umbilical Cord Prolapse
Certain situations increase the chances of umbilical cord prolapse. Babies not positioned head-down or pregnancies with twins have a higher risk. A long umbilical cord can also increase the chance. If the membranes rupture and the baby’s head is not engaged in the pelvis, the cord may slip out first.
When this happens, medical professionals act quickly to relieve pressure on the cord. Immediate steps may include changing the mother’s position or performing an emergency cesarean section to deliver the baby. Sometimes, a doctor or midwife may gently lift the baby to reduce pressure on the cord until delivery.
Umbilical cord prolapse requires fast action to keep the baby safe. Hospitals have procedures to handle this emergency effectively, often saving both mother and baby from complications. Monitoring the baby’s heart rate during labor helps detect signs of cord compression. A drop in heart rate may signal cord issues, leading to rapid intervention.
In summary, umbilical cord prolapse is a rare but serious emergency where the cord comes before the baby. Medical teams know how to manage this condition, acting quickly to avoid harm. While prolapse is frightening, modern healthcare provides tools and procedures to help both mother and baby through this unexpected complication.