Can a baby with a two-loop nuchal cord be delivered vaginally?
Disease description:
I accompanied my best friend to her prenatal checkup, where it was discovered that the fetus had a two-loop nuchal cord. She is worried that she may not be able to deliver vaginally as scheduled. Can vaginal delivery still occur with a two-loop nuchal cord?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Cao Ting
Two loops of nuchal cord (umbilical cord around the fetal neck) generally do not preclude vaginal delivery; however, the feasibility of vaginal birth must be determined based on the mother’s individual clinical circumstances. Multiple factors influence the possibility of vaginal delivery, including pelvic anatomy, fetal size, and uterine contractility. In cases of isolated two-loop nuchal cord—without other complicating factors—vaginal delivery is usually possible, and the impact on labor is typically minimal. Nevertheless, close intrapartum monitoring—particularly of fetal heart rate patterns—is essential.
