Question
Which of the following factors are associated with cord prolapse during labour?
I. Malpresentations
II. Contracted pelvis
III. Stabilizing induction
IV. Prematurity
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
| A. | I, II, III and IV |
| B. |
I, II and IV only |
| C. |
I, II and III only |
| D. |
III and IV only |
|
Correct Answer » B Explanation |
 |
Umbilical cord prolapse occurs when the umbilical cord descends through the cervix alongside or ahead of the presenting fetal part after rupture of membranes. It is an obstetric emergency because compression of the cord can lead to acute fetal hypoxia and fetal death.
The major predisposing factor is failure of the presenting part to adequately fill the pelvic inlet, leaving space for the cord to slip past.
The recognized risk factors include:
- Malpresentations (e.g., breech, transverse lie, unstable lie)
- Contracted pelvis (Cephalopelvic disproportion), where the presenting part remains high and unengaged
- Prematurity, because the fetal head is small and often unengaged
Thus, I, II, and IV are correct.