Presenting a knot in the umbilical cord is a very rare condition in pregnancy, it is estimated that in one out of every 100 pregnancies (one percent) a knot is formed in the umbilical cord that connects the baby with the mother .
Most of the time the knot is loose and is protected by a jelly, which does not pose a risk to the baby, but when the knot is strong and tight it can prevent the flow of blood and therefore the nutrients and oxygen reach the baby.
What is an umbilical cord knot?
It is one of the possible complications of the umbilical cord. The very nature of the cord makes it practically impossible for knots to form since it is covered by a gelatinous substance (Wharton’s jelly) that gives it flexibility and elasticity, however the movements and cartwheels of the baby inside the uterus, especially during first few months, it can cause knots to form in the umbilical cord.
It is more likely to occur when the umbilical cord is too long and in identical twins, who share the same amniotic sac. The average length of the cord is between 50 and 60 centimeters, however, sometimes it can be shorter or longer, which often cause complications.
Most of the time they are false knots, that is, minor alterations in the structure. This in itself is not a complication, but rather a curiosity that is discovered at birth. But sometimes they are true knots that can tighten as the pregnancy progresses and cause a deficit of nutrients and oxygen in the fetus , and even death.
The doctor will evaluate in these cases if it is feasible to attempt a vaginal delivery or perform a cesarean section. As we see in the image, the knot is not an impediment to deliver vaginally, as long as the baby’s heart rate is not altered.
Photo | Monet Nicole
In Babies and more | Circular cord, what happens if the cord gets tangled around the baby’s neck? The umbilical cord in the newborn: everything you need to know
