Nuchal Cord

A nuchal cord occurs when the umbilical cord is wrapped around a baby’s neck. It is common and often causes no harm. In some circumstances, cord compression can affect fetal heart rate patterns or contribute to reduced oxygen delivery. A nuchal cord alone does not prove injury or malpractice. The medical review considers the tracing, labor progress, cord findings, newborn condition, blood gases, treatment, and evidence about when and how any injury occurred.