The entanglement of the umbilical cord around the neck of the fetus is a fairly common problem. And although early diagnosis makes it possible to detect and eliminate all possible risks in time, sometimes they cannot be avoided.
It is worth noting that the umbilical cord is a kind of "rope", the length of which is from 40 to 60 centimeters. Important vessels pass through it, thanks to which the developing baby receives oxygen, "building materials" and nutrients from the mother.
The entanglement of the umbilical cord around the neck of the fetus: the main causes
In fact, it is far from always possible to establish the causes of this phenomenon. Nevertheless, it was possible to find out some risk groups:
- The entanglement is more likely in cases where the length of the umbilical cord is more than 70 centimeters. It is interesting that its parameters are genetically incorporated and cannot be changed.
- Sometimes a similar problem occurs among women with a large amount of amniotic fluid, since in such cases the fetus gets more space for active movements.
- Of course, frequent stress can lead to the same result, because the release of large doses of adrenaline leads to active movements.
- Occasionally, such violations can be due to too active training. This does not mean that physical exercises are contraindicated for pregnant women, just in such an important period it is better to deal with an experienced trainer.
Is it possible to determine the entanglement of the umbilical cord around the neck of the fetus?
Many women are interested in whether it is possible to determine the presence of a problem before the birth of the baby. Today, such an opportunity is given by ultrasound studies. The umbilical cord can be seen and examined starting from the 17th week of pregnancy - during this period the doctor examines the blood flow and the condition of the fetus. Nevertheless, obstetricians attach importance only to those data that are already received at about the 33rd week of pregnancy, closer to childbirth.
How dangerous is the cord wrapping around the neck of the fetus?
Such a phenomenon is not always dangerous for health. For example, to date, a single entanglement of the umbilical cord around the neck of the fetus is not considered a pathology, especially if it is found in early pregnancy. You need to worry when entanglement provokes a violation of blood flow, because the vessels located there are the only source of oxygen and nutrients for the growing organism. It is very important to notice intrauterine hypoxia on time, since oxygen deficiency can lead to dangerous consequences.
Birth complications
In fact, entwining the umbilical cord does not always pose a danger to the fetus. If the obstetrician is aware of the presence of such a violation, then he will be able to choose the right tactics of conducting birth. Two and multiple entanglements are dangerous, especially if the umbilical cord tightly covers the neck of the baby. In such cases, acute hypoxia during childbirth or even asphyxia is possible. That is why the latest ultrasound is so important. If there is a tight entanglement, the doctor may allow the stimulation of childbirth. As a rule, doctors manage to cope with a similar problem without sad consequences.