Which complication involves the umbilical cord passing into the birth canal ahead of the baby, potentially cutting off its blood supply?

• A. Placenta previa
• B. Placenta abruption
• C. Breech
• D. Umbilical cord prolapse

Answer: (D)

When the umbilical cord slips into the birth canal before the baby, it can be compressed as the baby moves down, which can cut off the baby’s blood supply and oxygen. This situation is called umbilical cord prolapse, an obstetric emergency that requires immediate attention to relieve pressure on the cord and expedite delivery.

Think of why this isn’t the same as the other conditions: placenta previa involves the placenta covering the cervix and usually causes painless bleeding, not a prolapsed cord. Placenta abruption is premature placental separation leading to painful bleeding and uterine tenderness. Breech refers to the baby presenting feet or buttocks first, not the cord’s position relative to the birth canal. Each of those has different signs and risks, whereas prolapse specifically describes the cord dropping ahead of the baby and risking compromised blood flow.