When the Cord Wraps Around: Calm Facts About Nuchal Cord

Worried that your baby’s umbilical cord might be wrapped around the neck? You’re not alone—and chances are, there is nothing to panic. Learn why nuchal cords are surprisingly common and when to seek extra care so you can breathe easier through the home stretch.

The umbilical cord is around 50cm long and delivers oxygen and nutrients from the placenta. Late in pregnancy, many parents worry that a wrapped cord may cause entanglement. Nuchal cord happens when the umbilical cord wraps around a baby’s neck. It’s common and usually harmless. This can happen to 20-30% of babies and most babies cope well. Nuchal cord is due to the baby's movement; longer cords or excess amniotic fluid may increase the risk. They are usually discovered at delivery, though sometimes visible on ultrasound. There’s no way to prevent or unwind a cord in utero.

A nuchal cord can be concerning only if it constricts blood flow during contractions, which may cause fetal distress; complete cord occlusion before delivery may cause stillbirth (SB), but this is extremely rare. A 2018 study of 54000 mothers found most nuchal cords were single loops and did not increase risks for growth problems, SB, or low Apgar scores. The risk of SB is 0.2% with single loop but increased with multiple loops.

An ultrasound scan with doppler blood flow of umbilical cord or non-stress test (NST) of fetal heart rate can be performed to reassure baby's status. Home based NST can now be done at the comfort of your home or office. Talk to your OB doctor with any concerns for reassurance today.