What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)
- Velamentous Cord Insertion
- Velamentous Umbilical Cord Insertion
What is Velamentous Insertion of Umbilical Cord? (Definition/Background Information)
- In approximately 90% of the placentas, the umbilical cord inserts normally, either into the central portion of the placental disc, or is off-centered (in an eccentric manner)
- In Velamentous Insertion of Umbilical Cord, the umbilical cord inserts into the membranes of the developing fetus, instead of the placental disc
- There are no causative factors associated with Velamentous Insertion of Umbilical Cord. However, multiple pregnancies, advanced age of the mother, and smoking during pregnancy are some of the risks for the condition
- The signs and symptoms of Velamentous Insertion of Umbilical Cord may include excessive hemorrhage during childbirth and decreased blood supply to the fetus, which may affect fetal growth and development
- The condition may be diagnosed by a physical examination, evaluation of complete medical history, and an ultrasound scan of the abdomen
- Velamentous Insertion of Umbilical Cord requires no treatment and the outcome is generally good in a majority of cases. However, complications can develop which may be avoided through an elective C-section delivery
- Presently, Velamentous Umbilical Cord Insertion is a condition that cannot be prevented
Who gets Velamentous Insertion of Umbilical Cord? (Age and Sex Distribution)
- Velamentous Insertion of Umbilical Cord occurs with an incidence of 1 in 100 pregnancies
- It may occur in pregnant women of all ages; however, the risk is higher with an increasing maternal age
- Women who are pregnant with both male and female fetuses can be affected
- There is no racial, ethnic, or geographical predilection observed
What are the Risk Factors for Velamentous Insertion of Umbilical Cord? (Predisposing Factors)
The risk factors for Velamentous Insertion of Umbilical Cord include:
- The condition is 9 times more common in a twin pregnancy than a single pregnancy
- The higher the number of multiple pregnancies, the greater is the risk
- Advanced maternal age: Higher the age of the pregnant mother, the greater is the risk
- Cigarette smoking during pregnancy
It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases ones chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.
Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.
What are the Causes of Velamentous Insertion of Umbilical Cord? (Etiology)
- The exact cause of Velamentous Insertion of Umbilical Cord is unknown
- However, some researchers believe that an abnormal development of the placental tissue may result in the condition
What are the Signs and Symptoms of Velamentous Insertion of Umbilical Cord?
The signs and symptoms of Velamentous Insertion of Umbilical Cord may include:
- Excessive hemorrhage/bleeding during childbirth
- Blood vessel compression
- Decreased blood flow to the fetus
The velamentous insertion may be observed on an ultrasound scan.
How is Velamentous Insertion of Umbilical Cord Diagnosed?
The diagnosis of Velamentous Insertion of Umbilical Cord may involve:
- Physical examination along with an evaluation of one’s medical history
- Prenatal ultrasound scan may reveal the insertion
Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.
What are the possible Complications of Velamentous Insertion of Umbilical Cord?
Complications due to Velamentous Insertion of Umbilical Cord may include:
- Preterm birth
- A Velamentous Cord Insertion may cause a decrease in blood flow to the developing fetus. This can result in intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR) and other congenital abnormalities in the developing fetus
- Studies have shown that 1 in 4 pregnancies end-up in spontaneous abortions, either in the 1st or 2nd trimester
- Excessive hemorrhage/bleeding during childbirth can result in fetal mortality
- Compression of the blood vessels can cause fetal distress
- If the velamentous membrane blood vessels are present in the cervical outlet of the uterus, they may rupture during early labor. This can result in stillbirth. This condition is known as vasa previa
How is Velamentous Insertion of Umbilical Cord Treated?
- There is no specific treatment available for Velamentous Insertion of Umbilical Cord
- Treatment is directed towards managing the fetal complications associated with this condition. Delivery through an elective cesarean section may be necessary to avoid some of the complications
How can Velamentous Insertion of Umbilical Cord be Prevented?
- Currently, there are no definitive methods available to prevent Velamentous Insertion of Umbilical Cord
- Complications may be avoided during delivery by considering an elective cesarean section (C-section)
What is the Prognosis of Velamentous Insertion of Umbilical Cord? (Outcomes/Resolutions)
- In a majority of cases, the prognosis of Velamentous Insertion of Umbilical Cord is good
- However, if complications develop, then the prognosis is guarded. In such cases, it is dependent upon the severity of the complications
Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Velamentous Insertion of Umbilical Cord:
The following DoveMed website link is a useful resource for additional information:
https://www.dovemed.com/diseases-conditions/pregnancy-related-disorders/
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