Umbilical cord compression during labour — caused by cord prolapse, cord around the neck (nuchal cord), or true cord knot — can restrict blood and oxygen flow to the baby. When compression is not identified from the CTG trace, or when a cord prolapse is not managed with immediate emergency delivery, the baby can suffer hypoxic brain injury, Erb's palsy from emergency manoeuvres, or stillbirth. This guide covers when umbilical cord compression gives rise to a clinical negligence claim.
Types of cord compression giving rise to claims
- Cord prolapse not identified or managed with sufficient urgency — cord prolapse is an obstetric emergency requiring immediate delivery by Category 1 caesarean section
- Failure to correctly interpret CTG changes indicating cord compression — variable decelerations with slow recovery, prolonged decelerations
- Failure to act on CTG evidence of acute fetal compromise by proceeding to emergency delivery
- Mismanagement of shoulder dystocia contributing to cord compression
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Frequently asked questions
Can I claim if my baby has cerebral palsy from cord prolapse?
Yes — if the cord prolapse was not recognised or responded to with appropriate urgency, and the delay caused hypoxic brain injury.
Can I claim if the CTG showed cord compression but no action was taken?
Yes — if the CTG changes indicating fetal compromise were present and a competent midwife or obstetrician would have acted on them to deliver the baby sooner.