Velamentous cord insertion
Velamentous Cord Insertion
Velamentous cord insertion (pronunciation: vuh-luh-men-tuhs kord in-sur-shun) is a complication that can occur during pregnancy. It is a rare condition, affecting approximately 1% of singleton pregnancies and a higher percentage of multiple pregnancies.
Etymology
The term "velamentous" is derived from the Latin word "velamen," which means "covering" or "veil." The term "cord insertion" refers to the point at which the umbilical cord attaches to the placenta.
Definition
In a normal pregnancy, the umbilical cord inserts into the middle of the placenta. In a pregnancy with velamentous cord insertion, the umbilical cord inserts into the fetal membranes (chorion and amnion), then travels within the membranes to the placenta (between the amnion and the chorion). The exposed vessels are not protected by Wharton's jelly and hence are vulnerable to rupture. Rupture is especially likely if the vessels are near the cervix, in which case they may rupture in early labor, which is a vasa previa.
Related Terms
- Umbilical Cord: The lifeline that attaches the fetus to the mother in utero.
- Placenta: An organ that provides oxygen and nutrients to your growing baby.
- Chorion: The outermost fetal membrane that surrounds the embryo and other membranes.
- Amnion: The innermost fetal membrane that forms the amniotic sac.
- Wharton's Jelly: A gelatinous substance within the umbilical cord that provides protection to the umbilical vessels.
- Vasa Previa: A condition where fetal blood vessels cross or run near the internal opening of the uterus.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Velamentous cord insertion
- Wikipedia's article - Velamentous cord insertion
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