What Is A Nuchal Cord And What Risks Does It Pose To The Mother And Child?

What Is A Nuchal Cord And What Risks Does It Pose To The Mother And Child?

Introduction A nuchal cord is something that occurs when the umbilical cord wraps around the neck of the foetus completely or for 360 degrees. A nuchal cord is a common phenomenon, and occurs in about 37% of births. According to the best obstetrician in Gurgaon, most nuchal cords will resolve before delivery, but others might interrupt blood flow, oxygen, and/or nutrients to the foetus and cause complications. In this article, we’ll discuss causes and risks of a nuchal cord with the help of experts at one of the best gynaecologist hospital in Gurgaon.

Causes Excessive foetal movement is something most doctors agree is the primary reason for a nuchal cord, including the best gynaecologist in Gurgaon for normal delivery. Other reasons include:

An abnormally long umbilical cord A weak cord structure Excessive amniotic fluid Having twins or multiples

Risks to Mother and Baby

The best gynae in Gurgaon expresses that a nuchal cord may only pose health risks in rare cases, as most are noticed in routine ultrasound imaging of the mother's pregnancy. However, complications can still occur, and include: Heart rate abnormalities • The most common risk from a nuchal cord is decreased heart rate of the baby during delivery.

This is usually the result of reduced oxygen and blood flow through the entangled cord during contractions.

Risks of Stillbirth • A stillbirth due to a nuchal cord is extremely rare, so much so that there has only been one noted case of such an event, in which a foetus died at 16 weeks due to a nuchal cord in the uterus.

If you need consultation or treatment regarding women’s health, pregnancy, neonatology or paediatrics, the mother care hospitals Gurgaon (the hospital mentioned above) is the place to go to. It is a renowned medical institute which is a part of one of the leading healthcare groups in North India.