What does the umbilical cord connect?

The umbilical cord connects the fetus to the placenta, which serves as a critical lifeline during pregnancy. The cord contains blood vessels that facilitate the exchange of oxygen, nutrients, and waste products between the mother and the developing fetus. This connection is essential for fetal growth and development, as the placenta acts as the interface through which the mother's and fetus's circulatory systems interact.

The umbilical cord typically contains one vein and two arteries. The vein carries oxygen-rich blood and essential nutrients from the placenta to the fetus, while the two arteries transport deoxygenated blood and waste products from the fetus back to the placenta for removal. This circulatory system is vital as the fetus is entirely dependent on the mother for its oxygen supply and nutritional needs until birth.

Understanding this connection is crucial for comprehending the fetus's physiological development and the mother's role in supporting that development through the placenta.