Nuchal cords: sharing the evidence with parents

Abstract

The presence of a nuchal cord, where the umbilical cord is around the neck at the point of birth is a common occurrence, and checking for, and managing a nuchal cord has become part of routine midwifery practice. Whilst a tight nuchal cord is associated with some short-term morbidity, it is unclear whether such outcomes are actually a result of the presence of the nuchal cord itself, or as a result of clamping and cutting the cord. The action of looping a loose nuchal cord over the baby's head before the emergence of the body may also interfere with the normal physiology of birth. In addition women's experience of birthing a baby with a nuchal cord has not been explored. The association of nuchal cords with danger is embedded within our culture and influences parent's perceptions. Therefore, childbirth education needs to address the issues surrounding this commonly occurring situation.