What defines a prolapsed umbilical cord?

• A. When the umbilical cord presents first and is squeezed between wall and baby's head
• B. When the cord becomes knotted around the baby's ankle
• C. When the cord wraps around the baby's neck
• D. When the placenta delivers before the baby

Answer: (A)

Prolapsed umbilical cord occurs when the cord slips down into the birth canal ahead of the baby and is compressed between the baby's presenting part and the vaginal wall or pelvis, risking reduction of fetal blood flow. The described situation—where the cord presents first and is squeezed between the wall and the baby's head—fits this definition because the cord is leading the way and can be compressed as labour progresses. The other scenarios describe different issues: a cord around a limb, a cord around the neck (nuchal cord), or a placental problem where the placenta delivers before the baby. This is an obstetric emergency requiring rapid assessment and transport, with steps focused on relieving pressure on the cord and preventing further injury.