Umbilical cord prolapse happens when the cord slips down in front of the baby after the waters have broken. It is rare, but when it occurs the medical team acts quickly because the cord can become compressed, reducing blood flow and oxygen to the baby. For the birthing person, the sequence from detection to action is usually very fast.

Signs may include sudden changes in the baby’s heart rate or the midwife noticing the cord during an examination. It’s important to remember that nothing you did caused this — cord prolapse can occur unpredictably, even in healthy pregnancies

When prolapse is suspected, your position is changed to relieve pressure on the cord — lifting the pelvis or using a hands-and-knees position can help create more space. At the same time, an emergency team is called and you are informed about what is happening.

Most often, the safest and quickest way to birth the baby is through an emergency caesarean. If the baby is already very low and conditions are stable, a rapid vaginal birth may be considered. The decision depends entirely on what is safest in that moment.

This situation can feel overwhelming, especially if labour felt calm just moments before. Emotional reactions afterward are completely normal. The team’s priority during a cord prolapse is to protect the baby’s oxygenation and keep you supported during rapid decision-making.

Alma’s tips

• You did nothing wrong — cord prolapse is unpredictable.

• Slow breathing can help if the moment feels intense; the team works quickly around you.

• Ask for a debrief afterwards if you want to understand what happened.

• It’s normal to need time to process the experience.