Cord prolapse occurs when the umbilical cord of an unborn baby slips through the cervix and into the vagina after the mother’s water breaks but before the baby descends into the birth canal.
Premature rupture of the membranes is a frequent precursor to cord prolapse, occurring when a mother’s water breaks before the onset of labor, and before her baby’s head has engaged or settled into the birth canal.
Various factors can contribute to the occurrence of cord prolapse during pregnancy and labor. These include your baby’s position, whether it’s breech, transverse, oblique, or an unstable lie, or if the head is unengaged in the pelvis
Cord prolapse is a relatively uncommon occurrence, happening in approximately one out of every 300 births.
If you suspect your baby’s umbilical cord is prolapsed and you are not already at the maternity ward, it is crucial to call the Emergency Number immediately or proceed to the hospital without delay.