Ep 209: The Umbilical Cord -What Is It, What Does It Do and What Problems Can Occur

The umbilical cord is truly your baby’s lifeline. It provides a pathway for the exchange of nutrients, oxygen, and waste. After birth the cord is cut and the fetal circulation ends, leaving behind a small stump. And when that stump falls away it makes the belly button, a permanent reminder of the physical connection between you and your baby.In this episode you’re going to learn about what potential problems can happen with the umbilical cord including those diagnosed during pregnancy (marginal cord insertion, velamentous cord insertion, vasa previa, 2 vessel cord), and those that can occur during birth (cord compression, cord prolapse, nuchal cord, cord knots). Now, even though I go over a lot of cord-related issues in this episode, the chances of a true emergency are unlikely. I want you to be informed and aware of the potential risks but mostly I want you to come away from this episode feeling amazed and appreciative of what your body can do.In this Episode, You’ll Learn About:What the umbilical cord delivers to your baby and how it worksWhich cord-related issues can be diagnosed during routine ultrasound examsWhat cord complications can happen during the course of laborWhat delayed cord clamping is and what the benefits areWhat umbilical cord blood banking meansWhat the types of cord blood banking are and which might be right for youHow different cultures around the world commemorate the umbilical cord--Full website notes: drnicolerankins.com/episode209Check out The Birth Preparation CourseRegister for the class How to Create a Birth Plan the Right WayOur Sponsors:* Check out Dr. Mom Butt Balm: drmombuttbalm.com* Head to byheart.com/podcast my code DRNICOLE for a great deal!* Practice love every day with Paired, the #1 app for couples. Download the app at https://www.paired.com/DRNICOLE Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy