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Single entanglement of the fetus with the umbilical cord: a week of pregnancy, how dangerous
A single entanglement with the umbilical cord is quite common. The expectant mother most often hears about this for the first time on an ultrasound scan and begins to worry a lot.
Causes of the umbilical cord entwined around the baby’s neck
The baby in the womb makes many movements. He can somersault, do somersaults and swim. Any of these movements can cause the entanglement. But the longer the gestation period, the lower the likelihood of entanglement, since the baby becomes cramped, he moves less.
The fetus can independently free itself from a single entanglement of the umbilical cord
A possible cause of entanglement is polyhydramnios. In this case, the child has too much room for movement, he actively uses it. A pregnant woman needs to remain calm, not nervous, since the increased level of adrenaline in the blood just contributes to the excessive mobility of the baby.
Even if the child is entangled in the umbilical cord, he can easily get rid of it. This is not a cause for concern, but just a warning for the obstetrician to watch mom and baby more closely.
How dangerous is entanglement?
The degree of danger depends on many factors. The entanglement with a long umbilical cord most often does not bring any inconvenience to the baby, even in the last weeks.
If the umbilical cord is too short, it can twine around the baby’s neck and cause a lack of oxygen – hypoxia. But the baby feels discomfort and in most cases it is successfully released from the umbilical cord. Medical intervention is required only when the normal blood flow between mother and child suffers.
A pregnant woman herself can determine the condition of the fetus by its movements.
If the child begins to move too little, this may be a signal of chronic hypoxia. Abrupt and violent movements of the baby indicate that he feels great discomfort and lack of oxygen. If, after such a violent activity, the child abruptly calms down, the mother needs to urgently consult a doctor.
Umbilical cord entanglement is not a pathology. This condition occurs in about a quarter of pregnant women, and most of them give birth to strong and healthy children. Natural childbirth with an entanglement of the umbilical cord is not dangerous, since modern equipment helps to control the heartbeat and the baby’s condition and to take the necessary tactics of delivery in time.
To reduce the risk of entanglement, the expectant mother needs to walk more in the fresh air, worry less and engage in breathing exercises. If the child does not lack oxygen, everything will be fine with him.