Understanding a Straight Umbilical Cord During Pregnancy: What You Need to Know

Question
Im 35, I have one daughter who is 16 and the first date of my last period is May 13, 2005.

I had an ultrasound done last week. They said the baby has a "straight umbilical cord". they didnt have any information to give me on it except it is not a good thing for the baby. I am of course going crazy knowing nothing about it. Could you give me any information?
Thank you, Jann

Answer
I am not aware of any "bad" thing by having a straight umbilical cord on sonogram. At 19-20 weeks gestation, it is quite early for them to comment on the "shape" of the umbilical cord. At this time, the umbilical cord merely looks like a series of short lines, one on top of the other. At this point in the pregnancy, it is not even a problem if the cord is around the neck or body of the baby since it moves around throughout the pregnancy. If the sonographers claim that a straight umbilical cord is not a good thing for the baby, ask what they meant by that and do not worry. First, find out what was meant. I have never heard of any problem with a straight cord.