Nuchal cord

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Nuchal cord
File:Tab IX; Foetus in utero with umbilical cord wrapped Wellcome L0064782 (cropped).jpg
Synonyms
Pronounce N/A
Specialty N/A
Symptoms Usually none, but can include fetal distress
Complications Hypoxia, stillbirth
Onset During pregnancy
Duration Until birth
Types N/A
Causes Umbilical cord wrapping around the fetal neck
Risks Long umbilical cord, excess amniotic fluid
Diagnosis Ultrasound
Differential diagnosis
Prevention None
Treatment Careful monitoring during labor and delivery
Medication N/A
Prognosis Generally good with proper management
Frequency Occurs in about 10-29% of pregnancies
Deaths N/A


File:SubConjNuchal.gif
Subconjunctival hemorrhage due to nuchal cord
File:PetechiaNuchal.gif
Petechiae due to nuchal cord
File:FacialDusky.gif
Facial dusky appearance due to nuchal cord
File:AbrasionNuchal.gif
Abrasion due to nuchal cord

Nuchal cord is a medical condition that occurs when the umbilical cord wraps around the fetus' neck 360 degrees. This condition is relatively common and can occur during pregnancy, labor, or birth.

Causes[edit]

The exact cause of a nuchal cord is not known. However, it is believed to be related to the movements of the fetus within the womb. The umbilical cord, which connects the fetus to the mother's placenta, can become wrapped around the fetus' neck as it moves and turns.

Diagnosis[edit]

A nuchal cord can be diagnosed during pregnancy through an ultrasound examination. However, it is often not detected until birth. During labor, a healthcare provider may suspect a nuchal cord if there are changes in the baby's heart rate.

Treatment[edit]

In most cases, a nuchal cord is not a cause for concern and does not require treatment. During birth, the healthcare provider can usually slip the cord over the baby's head or clamp and cut the cord before the baby is delivered. In some cases, a Cesarean section may be necessary.

Complications[edit]

While a nuchal cord is usually harmless, it can sometimes lead to complications. These can include decreased blood flow to the baby, which can lead to a lower heart rate. In rare cases, a nuchal cord can cause stillbirth.

Images[edit]

See also[edit]

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