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Nuchal cord – aetiological factors, perinatal outcome, and its relation with amniotic fluid: A case-control study
  • Sonal Walawalkar,
  • Shahdab Almelkar
Sonal Walawalkar
Shree Hospital & Research Institute (SHRI)

Corresponding Author:[email protected]

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Shahdab Almelkar
Health Biolabs, Shree Hospital & Research Institute (SHRI), Kolhapur
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Abstract

Objectives: To search into aetiological factors of nuchal cord (NC). To understand its relation with amniotic fluid levels and perinatal outcome. Design: A prospective case-control study. Setting: Shree Hospital and Research Institute (SHRI), Kolhapur, India. Population of sample: 95 non-complimented singleton pregnant women. Method: Maternal age, socioeconomic status, education level, and parity were noted. They underwent ultrasonography at 34 weeks onwards. NC, if present, along with amniotic fluid index were reported. They were followed until parturition. Intrapartum assessment of liquor, APGAR, fetal need for oxygen, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), gender, and birth weight were noted. Participants were divided into nuchal cord at birth (NCB) and the no-nuchal cord (NNCB) groups. Parameters were analysed. Result: NC incidence is highest in young (≤ 24 yrs), low socioeconomic status, higher education, primigravida, excess liquor, and male fetus. It causes reduction in liquor level, low fetal birth weight, low 1 min APGAR, extended oxygen (> 30 min), and NICU support. Conclusion: The epidemiological factors and excess liquor play an essential role in NC. It may be related to maternal stress. However, NC results in oligohydramnios, low birth weight, and fetal distress. The nuchal cord is not a physiological condition.