01/06/2026
🚨 UMBILICAL CORD PROLAPSE DURING CHILDBIRTH
A rare but life-threatening obstetric emergency where the umbilical cord slips ahead of the baby during labor.
🔹 Key Structures Shown:
• Maternal pelvis
• Cervix
• Umbilical cord
• Fetal head and body
• Birth canal
• Placenta
🔹 What Is Umbilical Cord Prolapse?
Umbilical cord prolapse occurs when the cord descends through the cervix before the baby. The baby’s body can compress the cord, reducing oxygen supply and requiring immediate medical intervention.
🔹 Emergency Actions Commonly Used:
✅ Maternal Positioning
The mother may be placed in a knee-chest or Trendelenburg position to reduce pressure on the cord.
✅ Manual Elevation of the Baby’s Head
A healthcare provider may gently lift the presenting part to decrease cord compression.
✅ Emergency Cesarean Delivery
Rapid delivery is often necessary to protect the baby from oxygen deprivation.
🔹 Important Medical Insights:
⚠️ Cord prolapse is a true obstetric emergency
⚠️ Compression of the umbilical cord can quickly