The umbilical cord serves as a baby’s lifeline during pregnancy. The cord delivers oxygen and nutrients necessary for healthy development. Most pregnancies involving the umbilical cord proceed without major issues. However, certain cord abnormalities and complications can place a baby at risk of birth injuries.
If your child was injured due to umbilical cord complications, you may have a medical malpractice claim against the medical providers in charge of labor and delivery. An experienced Houston birth injury lawyer at Hampton & King can help you understand your rights.
Below, we explain the common types of umbilical cord complications. If you have questions about your legal options after a birth injury, call us today for a free consultation.
Umbilical Cord Compression
Umbilical cord compression occurs when pressure is placed on the cord and restricts blood flow between the placenta and the baby. Compression may occur during pregnancy or labor and can result from factors such as low amniotic fluid levels, fetal positioning, or cord entrapment.
When blood flow becomes restricted, the baby may experience decreased oxygen levels and fetal distress. Common warning signs include abnormal fetal heart rate patterns. If compression becomes severe or prolonged, it may increase the risk of hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE), brain damage, cerebral palsy, and other serious complications.
Nuchal Cord
A nuchal cord occurs when the umbilical cord becomes wrapped around a baby’s neck before or during delivery. In many cases, a nuchal cord does not cause significant complications and can be safely managed during childbirth.
However, tight or multiple loops of cord around the neck may interfere with blood flow or oxygen delivery. In some situations, a nuchal cord may contribute to complications during labor and delivery.
Short Umbilical Cord
Some babies develop an umbilical cord that is significantly shorter than average. A short umbilical cord may limit fetal movement and create complications during labor.
Potential risks associated with a short cord include:
- Placental abruption
- Fetal distress
- Delayed labor progression
- Restricted fetal movement
- Oxygen deprivation
A short cord can also create tension during delivery, which can increase the risk of injury if not properly managed.
Prolapsed Umbilical Cord
A prolapsed umbilical cord is a medical emergency that occurs when the cord slips through the cervix ahead of the baby during labor. When this happens, the baby’s body can compress the cord, cutting off oxygen and blood flow.
In many cases, an emergency cesarean section is necessary to prevent catastrophic injuries to baby and mother. If delivery is delayed after a prolapse occurs, the baby may suffer severe complications or death.
True Knot Umbilical Cord
A true knot develops when the umbilical cord forms an actual knot during pregnancy. Some true knots remain loose and never cause complications. Others may tighten as pregnancy progresses or during labor.
A tightened knot can reduce blood flow and oxygen delivery to the baby. Potential consequences include:
- Fetal distress
- Growth restrictions
- Oxygen deprivation
- Stillbirth
Because true knots can be difficult to detect before delivery, healthcare providers must remain alert to signs that the baby may be experiencing distress.
Marginal Cord Insertion
Marginal cord insertion occurs when the umbilical cord attaches near the edge of the placenta rather than the center. This abnormal attachment can affect the efficiency of nutrient and oxygen delivery during pregnancy.
Although many pregnancies with marginal cord insertion result in healthy births, the condition may increase the risk of:
- Fetal growth restriction
- Low birth weight
- Preterm birth
- Placental complications
- Fetal distress during labor
Doctors often monitor these pregnancies more closely to identify potential complications and determine whether additional intervention may be necessary.
Get Help From a Houston Birth Injury Lawyer
Not every umbilical cord complication can be prevented. However, healthcare providers must recognize warning signs and take timely action when fetal distress develops.
If your child suffered injuries related to an umbilical cord complication, you may have legal options. The experienced Houston birth injury lawyers at Hampton & King can investigate the circumstances surrounding your child’s injury and help determine whether medical negligence played a role. Contact us today for a free consultation to learn more about your rights and potential legal options.