Umbilical cord

Definition

The umbilical cord is a flexible, tube-like structure that connects the developing fetus to the placenta during pregnancy. It serves as the lifeline between the mother and the fetus, facilitating the exchange of nutrients, gases, and waste products. This essential connection is vital for fetal development, ensuring that the fetus receives the necessary support to grow and thrive in utero.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The umbilical cord typically contains two arteries and one vein, which transport oxygenated blood and nutrients from the placenta to the fetus while carrying deoxygenated blood and waste back to the placenta.
2. It usually measures about 50-60 centimeters in length at term, but its length can vary widely among individuals.
3. The umbilical cord is covered by a gelatinous substance called Wharton's jelly, which provides cushioning and protection for the blood vessels within.
4. In some cases, the umbilical cord can become compressed during labor or delivery, potentially affecting fetal heart rate and necessitating medical intervention.
5. Proper care of the umbilical cord stump after birth is essential to prevent infection as it eventually dries up and falls off within a few weeks.

Review Questions

• How does the umbilical cord contribute to fetal development during pregnancy?
  • The umbilical cord plays a crucial role in fetal development by acting as a conduit for essential nutrients, oxygen, and hormones from the mother through the placenta to the fetus. It also facilitates the removal of waste products from fetal circulation back to the mother for disposal. Without this vital connection, the fetus would not be able to grow properly or survive in the womb.
• Discuss potential complications related to the umbilical cord during labor and delivery.
  • Complications related to the umbilical cord during labor and delivery can include cord compression, which may lead to decreased fetal heart rate and stress. Additionally, issues like a short cord can limit fetal movement or lead to complications during delivery. In rare cases, a knot in the umbilical cord can occur, which may compromise blood flow and oxygen supply to the fetus, requiring close monitoring and potentially an emergency cesarean section.
• Evaluate how understanding umbilical cord function can influence prenatal care practices.
  • Understanding the function of the umbilical cord allows healthcare providers to better monitor fetal health throughout pregnancy. By assessing factors like cord length and position via ultrasound, practitioners can identify potential issues early on. This knowledge helps inform prenatal care practices such as recommending certain positions during labor or deciding on intervention methods to ensure optimal conditions for fetal well-being, ultimately leading to improved maternal-fetal outcomes.

Related terms

Placenta: An organ that forms in the uterus during pregnancy, providing oxygen and nutrients to the growing fetus while removing waste products.

Fetal circulation: The unique system of blood circulation in a fetus that includes special structures like the ductus arteriosus and foramen ovale, allowing blood to bypass non-functioning lungs.

Gestation: The period of development during pregnancy, from conception until birth, typically lasting about 40 weeks in humans.