Cord presentation and prolapse
Date
2025
Authors
Brown, A.
Jones, C.
Sutton, V.
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This document is a South Australian Perinatal Practice Guideline focused on cord presentation and cord prolapse—rare but serious situations that can happen before or during birth. These guidelines are used by all healthcare professionals providing maternity care in South Australia to ensure every woman and baby receives safe, timely, and consistent care. Cord prolapse occurs when the umbilical cord slips into the birth canal ahead of the baby, which can reduce the baby’s oxygen supply. This is an emergency and requires immediate action. The guideline outlines exactly what midwives and doctors should do if this happens, including: How to recognise signs of a possible cord issue on a baby’s heart rate monitor. When and how to safely check if the cord is in the wrong place.What to avoid if the cord is near the baby before the water breaks. What steps to take if the cord prolapses (including calling for urgent help, positioning the mother, and preparing for an emergency caesarean if needed). Ensuring a skilled newborn resuscitation team is ready at the birth. By following this guideline, maternity staff can act quickly and appropriately to protect the baby and support the woman during a very serious situation.
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Copyirght 2025 Department for Health and Wellbeing, Government of South Australia