What is a potential complication if an umbilical cord prolapses during delivery?

When an umbilical cord prolapses during delivery, the cord slips ahead of or alongside the baby, potentially leading to compression. This can impede blood flow and oxygen transfer from the placenta to the fetus. As the baby descends through the birth canal, the cord can become pinched between the baby's body and the pelvic wall, leading to a reduction in circulation. This situation can be critical, as it may result in fetal distress, which is characterized by abnormal heart rate patterns due to the compromised blood supply. The risk associated with this complication underscores the importance of immediate medical intervention to alleviate cord compression and ensure the well-being of the fetus during delivery. Hence, impaired blood flow to the fetus is a significant concern when umbilical cord prolapse occurs.