Is marginal umbilical cord prone to premature birth

Marginal umbilical cord may increase the probability of premature birth, but it is not an absolute causal relationship. Marginal umbilical cord refers to the umbilical cord attached to the edge of the placenta rather than the center, which may affect the efficiency of fetal nutrient delivery. When the placental function is good and the umbilical cord blood flow is normal, it usually does not lead to premature birth. However, if combined with abnormal placental function or umbilical cord compression, it may induce uterine contractions or fetal distress. Most marginal umbilical cord pregnant women can give birth at full term. The marginal sinus of the placenta may gradually move away from the cervical opening during pregnancy as the uterus grows, reducing the risk of vascular rupture. Regular prenatal check ups to monitor umbilical blood flow index and fetal growth are key, and ultrasound examination can evaluate placental position and umbilical cord attachment status. Avoid vigorous exercise and prolonged standing in daily life to reduce the stimulation of the umbilical cord caused by changes in abdominal pressure.

In rare cases, it is necessary to be alert to signs of premature birth. When the marginal umbilical cord is combined with placenta previa or vascular previa, painless vaginal bleeding may occur in the middle and late stages of pregnancy. When fetal growth is restricted or fetal heart rate monitoring is abnormal, early termination of pregnancy may be necessary. Pregnant women with hypertension or diabetes during pregnancy need to strengthen monitoring. Such complications will increase the risk of placental hypoperfusion.

It is recommended that pregnant women with marginal umbilical cord disease undergo fetal heart monitoring and ultrasound examination every two weeks to monitor changes in fetal movement. If frequent uterine contractions, vaginal discharge or bleeding occur, seek medical attention immediately. The delivery method needs to be comprehensively evaluated, and vaginal delivery is not contraindicated, but an emergency cesarean section plan should be equipped. Postpartum examination of placental integrity is necessary to confirm the absence of residual vascular rupture.