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Nuchal cord encirclements and birth weight.
J Christopher Carey1, William F Rayburn
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Oklahoma College of Medicine, Oklahoma City, USA.
The Journal of Reproductive Medicine
|July 15, 2003
Summary
Nuchal cord encirclement, whether single or multiple, does not negatively impact fetal growth or birth weight. This finding suggests that the presence of a nuchal cord does not require specific interventions for fetal growth concerns.
Area of Science:
- Perinatal medicine
- Obstetrics
- Fetal development
Background:
- Nuchal cord encirclement is a common finding during pregnancy.
- The potential impact of nuchal cords on fetal growth remains a subject of clinical interest.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between single or multiple nuchal cord encirclements and fetal growth.
- To determine if nuchal cord encirclements affect birth weight.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 13,256 deliveries between January 1991 and December 1996.
- Inclusion criteria: live-born single and multiple births with birth weight >= 300 g.
- Statistical analysis using ANOVA and multiple linear regression, controlling for confounding factors.
Main Results:
- Single nuchal cord encirclement observed in 24.5% of deliveries; multiple in 3.8%.
- No significant association found between nuchal cord encirclement and diagnosed growth restriction.
- Mean birth weight was not significantly different in the presence of single or multiple nuchal cord encirclements compared to controls.
Conclusions:
- Single or multiple nuchal cord encirclements do not adversely affect fetal birth weight.
- The presence of a nuchal cord alone is not a predictor of restricted fetal growth.