Can a Week-Long Nuchal Cord Untangle Itself?

Let's take a look together! Whether the umbilical cord can untangle itself from around the neck depends on specific circumstances. If the fetus is relatively young and small, there is a certain chance that it may untangle itself while floating in amniotic fluid. If the fetus has already entered the pelvic cavity, the fetus is too large, or the umbilical cord is too long, the umbilical cord may not untangle itself from around the neck within a week. After the umbilical cord wraps around the neck for a week, it is recommended to closely observe fetal movements, as this condition can easily lead to intrauterine hypoxia. If fetal movements become abnormally frequent or significantly decrease, it is recommended to promptly visit the hospital for examinations such as ultrasound and fetal heart monitoring to observe the fetus's condition. If the umbilical cord wraps around the neck for a week but the fetus appears relatively healthy in later examinations, special treatment is usually not required. Good daily care should be provided, such as observing good fetal movements, engaging in appropriate activities, and maintaining a left lateral recumbent position for rest. If delivery is imminent and the umbilical cord has not untangled itself from around the neck, natural delivery can still be attempted under close monitoring. Enhanced monitoring should be implemented, and continuous monitoring can be used at the cervical opening. In cases of frequent and severe variable decelerations or fetal distress, cesarean section should be performed to end the delivery as soon as possible.