What are the causes of nuchal cord in infants?

Generally, possible causes of fetal nuchal cord (umbilical cord around the neck) may include fetal movement, umbilical cord length, multiple pregnancies, polyhydramnios (excess amniotic fluid), and abnormal umbilical cord structure. Symptomatic management may involve routine treatment, medication, or surgical intervention. If a pregnant woman experiences any physical discomfort, she should seek medical attention promptly to avoid delays in treatment. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Fetal Movement

Fetuses often move, twist, and roll inside the uterus, which may cause the umbilical cord to wrap around their neck. This situation is more likely to occur when the fetus is small and has relatively more space and greater range of motion. No special treatment is required, but pregnant women can monitor fetal health through regular prenatal checkups and close observation of fetal heart rate and movements.

2. Umbilical Cord Length

An excessively long umbilical cord increases the likelihood of the fetus wrapping it around the neck and may even lead to complications such as cord knots, entanglement, or prolapse. No specific treatment is required, but regular prenatal examinations and fetal heart monitoring are necessary to closely observe fetal condition.

3. Multiple Pregnancies

In multiple pregnancies, the increased number of fetuses raises the likelihood of cord entanglement or nuchal cords. This may be accompanied by maternal complications such as hypertension and diabetes. Pregnant women should follow medical advice for prenatal checkups and fetal heart monitoring, closely observing fetal condition. Additionally, pregnant women should ensure adequate rest and nutrition, avoiding strenuous activity and emotional fluctuations.

4. Polyhydramnios

Excess amniotic fluid creates a relatively spacious environment in the uterus, increasing fetal mobility and the chance of the umbilical cord moving around the fetus, thereby increasing the risk of cord entanglement around the neck. This may be accompanied by maternal symptoms such as abdominal distension and difficulty breathing. Close monitoring of both fetal and maternal health is recommended. If necessary, procedures such as amniocentesis may be performed to reduce amniotic fluid volume and lower the risk of nuchal cord.

5. Abnormal Umbilical Cord Structure

Abnormalities in the umbilical cord structure, such as cord torsion or abnormal development of umbilical vessels, can affect the cord's flexibility and extensibility, making it more likely to form loop-like structures around the fetus and increasing the risk of cord entanglement around the neck. Prenatal ultrasound monitoring can help assess umbilical cord structure and fetal health. If abnormal cord structure with nuchal cord is detected, the physician will determine whether an early cesarean section is necessary based on the specific situation.

In daily life, pregnant women should maintain healthy lifestyle habits, such as regular sleep patterns and balanced nutrition. Regular prenatal checkups should also be conducted to monitor fetal development in a timely manner.

References

[1] Zhou Hong. Understanding Nuchal Cord—Case Analysis and Preventive Measures [N]. Shanxi Science and Technology News, 2024-09-10 (A03).

[2] Zhou Jinsong. How to Manage Fetal Nuchal Cord [J]. Family Medicine (Second Half of the Month), 2023(07): 30.