Cord prolapse Flashcards
What is a cord prolapse
Umbilical cord descends below presenting part of foetus + through cervix into vagina after rupture of foetal membranes
What can cord prolaps cuase
Foetal hypoxia due to compression of cord
When would you not get contraception in diabetes?
Nephropathy
Retinal damage
Most significatn risk factor for cord prolapse
foetus abnormal lie after 37 weeks gestation
How to diagnose cord prolapse
Signs of foetal distress on CTG
Vaginal exam
Speculum exam to confirm
Management of cord prolapse
Emergency C section
Cord kept warm and wet with minimal handling
What does handling the cord risk causing
Vasospasm
What can be done when the cord is being compressed?
Presenting part pushed upwards to prevent it compressing the cord
Left lateral position - pillow under the hip
or Knee-chest position - on all fours
Use gravity to draw foetus away fromm the pelvis and reduce compression on cord
Tocolytic medication (eg terbutaline) minmise conditions while waiting for C section
