How do you manage a prolapsed cord?
Management and Treatment Umbilical cord prolapse is an acute obstetric emergency that requires immediate delivery of the baby. The route of delivery is usually by cesarean section. The doctor will relieve cord compression by manually elevating the fetal presentation part until cesarean section is performed.
Should a prolapsed cord be replaced into the vagina?
When delivery is imminent, this is less of a concern. But with a prolonged interval to delivery, the cord could dry out, which could lead to vasospasm and thus, potentially worse outcomes. Therefore, if the cord prolapses through the introitus, it should be gently replaced into the vagina.
Is a prolapsed cord a medical emergency?
In an umbilical cord prolapse, the umbilical cord slips ahead of the fetus and moves into the cervical canal, vagina, or comes out of the birth canal before the baby (1). This is an obstetrical emergency because the cord is at high risk for compression, blocking oxygen and blood flow to the baby.
When should you suspect a prolapsed cord?
Cord prolapse should be suspected when there is an abnormal fetal heart rate pattern, especially if such changes commence soon after membrane rupture, either spontaneous or artificial. Speculum and/or digital vaginal examination should be performed when cord prolapse is suspected.
What is the best position for prolapsed cord?
Repositioning of the mother to be in the knee-chest position or Trendelenburg position (head down with feet elevated), lying on left side is usually preferred. Filling of the bladder using a foley catheter can help elevate the presenting fetal part and lift it off the cord.
Which position is good for cord prolapse?
Encourage into left lateral position with head down and pillow placed under left hip OR knee-chest position. This will relieve pressure off the cord from the presenting part.
What are the 2 consequences of cord prolapse?
If you have cord prolapse, quick treatment from a medical professional is essential. The longer the delay, the greater the risk of complications such as placental abruption, excessive bleeding, fetal injuries and stillbirth.
What can you do for a prolapsed cord at home?
Cord prolapse management Move into a knee-chest position on the floor, with your bottom higher than your shoulders, to take the baby’s weight off your cervix. Stay in this position until the ambulance arrives. If the cord is protruding out of your vagina, gently push it back in.
What is the best position for cord prolapse?
How do you prevent cord coils?
There’s no way to prevent or treat a nuchal cord. Nothing can be done about it until delivery. Health professionals check for a cord around the neck of every single baby born, and usually it’s as simple as gently slipping it off so that it doesn’t tighten around the baby’s neck once the baby has started to breathe.
Can cord prolapse be prevented?
Can a cord prolapse be prevented? Umbilical cord prolapse cannot be prevented. However, if you are at increased risk, you may be advised to be admitted to hospital – then immediate action can be taken if your waters break or you go into labour.