Q: I have completed 36 weeks of pregnancy. Recently an ultrasound examination showed a loop of umbilical cord around the baby's neck. The doctors say there is no cause for worry and that the loop would move on its own. The baby's heartbeat, placenta and weight are normal. Please advise if I should have a caesarean section done or wait for a normal labour.

A:Having the cord round the neck is not an uncommon condition and the incidence is about 20%. As long as the baby's movements are good and the fluid around the baby (amniotic fluid) is normal there should be no danger to the baby during the pregnancy. However, during labour the baby's heartbeat should be monitored frequently to detect any sign of cord compression which can lead to reduced oxygen supply to the baby. Caesarean section is performed only if the baby is showing signs of distress.