O69: Labour and delivery complicated by umbilical cord complications

O69.0: Labour and delivery complicated by prolapse of cord

During pregnancy the umbilical cord connects the child's blood circulation to the mother's. The child receives nutrients and oxygen via the blood vessels in the umbilical cord.

An umbilical cord prolapse is when part of the umbilical cord lies beneath the child in the mother's pelvis. When the child is pushed further downwards during the birth process, the umbilical cord can get pinched. The umbilical cord can then get caught between the child and the pelvis. As a result, the child may no longer be supplied with sufficient oxygen.