• To relieve pressure on the umbilical cord in presence of prolapse (where the umbilical cord lies in front or beside presenting part and membranes are ruptured)

• Abnormally long umbilical cord
• Contracted pelvis/pelvic tumors
• Low birth weight (<2,500 g)
• Malpresentation/malposition
• Multiple gestation
• Multiparity
• Polyhydramnios
• Prematurity Spontaneous rupture of membranes

• Have the patient lie on their left side with chest flat on the bed in a semi-prone position
• Right knee and thigh drawn in towards chest
• Left arm lies along her back
• Place a pillow/wedge under their left hip/buttocks
• Can place the bed in trendelenberg (where the head of the head is slightly angled down and the feet are angle up) to increase effectiveness of position

Editor:

• Anthony J. Busti, MD, PharmD, FNLA, FAHA

Last Reviewed:  September 2016

1. Dilbaz B et al. Risk factors and perinatal outcomes associated with umbilical cord prolapse. Arch Gynecol Obstet. 2006;274(2):104-7.
2. Lindsay P. Presentation and Prolapse of the Umbilical Cord. In: Henderson C, MacDonald S, editors. Mayes' Midwifery A textbook for Midwives. 13th ed. London: Bailiere Tindall; 2004. p. 954-59.