Umbilical Cord Prolapse and Compression Claims

Unexpected complications during labour can have lasting consequences for both babies and their families. Umbilical cord prolapse and compression can significantly reduce a baby’s oxygen supply if they are not treated as medical emergencies. Where there are concerns that delays or failures in care contributed to injury or loss, pursuing a claim can help establish what went wrong and provide reassurance, accountability, and support for the future.

At Macks Solicitors, our specialist medical negligence solicitors support families throughout the claims process with sensitivity, clarity, and care.

Free Initial Discussion

For no-obligation advice and information, call our specialist medical negligence solicitors today on 01642 843 671 or use our contact form and we will call you back

What Is Umbilical Cord Prolapse and Compression?

Umbilical cord prolapse occurs when the umbilical cord descends through the cervix ahead of the baby during labour. Umbilical cord compression happens when the cord becomes squeezed, reducing the supply of oxygen and blood to the baby.

Both conditions are medical emergencies that require immediate action. If not managed promptly and appropriately, they can lead to serious complications, including brain injury or, in the most severe cases, death.

How do I know if medical negligence was involved?

Medical negligence may be suspected where warning signs were missed, there were delays in diagnosis or treatment, signs of fetal distress were not acted upon, or an emergency delivery was not carried out promptly. If you have concerns about the care provided, a specialist solicitor can review your medical records and advise whether the standard of care fell below what should reasonably have been expected. Call us today on 01642 843 671 or use our contact form and we will call you back

Can umbilical cord prolapse or compression be prevented?

While these conditions cannot always be prevented, risks can often be identified in advance. Proper monitoring, timely diagnosis, and prompt action during labour are essential to reduce the risk of harm.

When Can an Umbilical Cord Prolapse or Compression Claim Be Made?

You may be able to make a claim if failures in medical care contributed to injury or loss. This may include:

• Failure to identify risk factors before labour
• Delayed diagnosis of cord prolapses or compression
• Inadequate monitoring of the baby’s heart rate
• Failure to act on signs of fetal distress
• Delays in performing an emergency delivery
• Poor management during labour or delivery

Our specialist solicitors will review medical records and obtain independent expert evidence to determine whether the standard of care fell below what should reasonably have been provided.

What Injuries Can Result from Umbilical Cord Prolapse or Compression?

Injuries may vary depending on how long the baby was deprived of oxygen and how quickly appropriate action was taken. These can include:

• Hypoxic brain injury
• Cerebral palsy
• Developmental delay
• Learning or cognitive difficulties
• Physical disability
• Stillbirth or neonatal death

We understand the long-term impact these injuries can have on both the child and their family, and we approach every case with care and understanding.

Who can bring an umbilical cord prolapse or compression claim?

Claims are usually brought by parents or legal guardians on behalf of a child. In cases involving stillbirth or neonatal death, parents may be eligible to bring a claim in their own right.

What Can Compensation Cover?

While compensation can’t change what has happened, a successful claim can help provide financial security and access to support. Compensation may include:

• Pain and suffering
• Ongoing care, therapy, and rehabilitation costs
• Specialist equipment and adaptations
• Loss of earnings or future earning capacity
• Psychological or emotional injury to parents
• Funeral and related expenses in fatal cases

The amount of compensation will depend on the individual circumstances of the case.

Time Limits for Making a Claim

In most medical negligence cases, the standard time limit is three years from the date the injury occurred, or from when it was first discovered.

• For children, the three-year limit does not begin until they turn 18, meaning a claim can be brought any time before their 21st birthday.
• If the injured person lacks mental capacity, the time limit may not apply.

It is always recommended to seek advice as early as possible, as delays can affect the availability and quality of evidence needed to support a claim.

How Macks Can Help

We understand that pursuing a claim is not only about compensation, but also about finding answers and accountability. Our experienced team will:

• Handle your case with care, sensitivity, and professionalism
• Obtain independent medical expert evidence
• Explain your options clearly and honestly

We support families at every stage of the claims process, ensuring they are informed and cared for throughout.

Contact us

For more information about making a umbilical cord prolapse and compression claim, you can call us on 01642 843 667; alternatively, complete our online contact form and one of our solicitors will be in touch.