What fetal complication can occur with cord compression during labor?

Cord compression during labor can lead to fetal bradycardia, which is a significant drop in the fetal heart rate. This occurs because the umbilical cord becomes compressed, leading to reduced blood flow and oxygen delivery to the fetus. The resulting hypoxia can trigger a reflex response, causing the heart rate to slow down. It's important to recognize bradycardia as a potential indication of compromised fetal well-being due to cord compression.

Additionally, while other fetal complications such as meconium aspiration or intrauterine infection can occur in various contexts during labor, they are not directly linked to the mechanics of cord compression in the same way that bradycardia is. Fetal tachycardia may suggest a different issue, such as fetal distress or maternal fever, rather than a response to cord compression. Therefore, within the context of cord compression, fetal bradycardia is the most relevant and critical complication to monitor for during labor.