Umbilical cord prolapse refers to the rupture of the fetal membranes when the umbilical cord comes out of the cervix, descends into the vagina or even is exposed to the vulva. If the prolapsed umbilical cord is not treated in time, it may lead to fetal death in the uterus.
There are many reasons for umbilical cord prolapse, such as abnormal fetal position, small size of the fetus or excessive amniotic fluid, long umbilical cord, abnormal attachment of the umbilical cord and low lying placenta.
For the mother, a prolapsed umbilical cord in late pregnancy may increase the rate of cesarean sections and surgical assisted deliveries, with a corresponding increase in the chance of complications.
For the fetus, if the prolapsed umbilical cord occurs when the prenatal area is not articulated and the membranes have not ruptured, it may result in an abnormal fetal heart rate. If the umbilical cord prolapse occurs when the fetal nuchal region is already articulated and the membranes are already ruptured, it may lead to fetal hypoxia or even intrauterine death. Therefore, umbilical cord prolapse is a more critical situation in obstetrics and requires prompt treatment.