P02: Fetus and newborn affected by complications of placenta, cord and membranes

P02.5: Fetus and newborn affected by other compression of umbilical 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.

If the blood is unable to flow freely through the umbilical cord, the child will not get an adequate supply of oxygen. This can be life-threatening for the child. There may be a disruption to the blood flow in the umbilical cord if, for example, the umbilical cord gets knotted up or twisted in the womb. If the umbilical cord wraps around parts of the child's body in the womb or during the birth, the blood flow can also be disrupted.