The presence of a nuchal cord is a very common occurrence during birth. Up to 30% of babies are born with their umbilical cord around their neck.

The nuchal cord has become the perfect scapegoat because it lays blame with the mother & the baby rather than the care provider & the system. This results in unnecessary fear & disproportionate concerns about nuchal cords within our culture.

In this episode we will cover:

• What is a nuchal cord
• Why & how do babies end up wearing their cords around their neck
• Can ultrasound scanning identify the presence of a nuchal cord
• The absence of it during pregnancy does not mean it won't be present at birth
• Why has nuchal cord become such a perfect & versatile scapegoat
• Can umbilical cords be "too short" for vaginal birth
• Can the nuchal cord strangle the baby right after birth
• Are there more dangers or things to worry about if the cord is wrapped more than once around the baby's neck
• Can nuchal cords cause morbidity or even mortality during pregnancy
• Pulling & looping cords around baby's neck while they are being born - is it good practice
• Summary

Links mentioned in this episode:

• Interview with Dr Michel Odent

Please get in touch if you have any questions and be sure to look out for more episodes in the coming weeks, where we'll bust all the common "fears" surrounding birth.

For antenatal support and classes go to Birth Serenity.

Yours In Birth,
Carla