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'''Umbilical cord'''
{{Short description|A structure connecting a developing fetus to the placenta}}


The '''[[Umbilical cord]]''' is a tube-like structure that connects a developing [[fetus]] to the [[placenta]] in mammals, including humans. It is a critical part of the [[pregnancy]] process, providing the fetus with oxygenated, nutrient-rich blood from the mother.
The '''umbilical cord''' is a vital structure in fetal development, serving as the lifeline between the developing fetus and the placenta. It facilitates the exchange of nutrients, gases, and waste products between the mother and the fetus.


==Structure==
==Structure==
The umbilical cord typically measures about 50 to 60 centimeters in length and 2 centimeters in diameter at full term. It is composed of three blood vessels: two [[umbilical arteries]] and one [[umbilical vein]]. The umbilical arteries carry deoxygenated blood and waste products from the fetus to the placenta, while the umbilical vein carries oxygenated blood and nutrients from the placenta to the fetus.


The umbilical cord is made up of three blood vessels: two smaller [[umbilical arteries]] that carry blood from the fetus to the placenta, and one larger [[umbilical vein]] that returns blood to the fetus. These vessels are surrounded by a gelatinous substance known as [[Wharton's jelly]], which provides protection and prevents compression of the blood vessels.
The cord is surrounded by a gelatinous substance known as [[Wharton's jelly]], which provides cushioning and protection to the blood vessels. The outer layer of the cord is covered by a layer of amniotic epithelium.


==Function==
==Function==
The primary function of the umbilical cord is to ensure the transfer of essential substances between the mother and the fetus. Through the umbilical vein, the fetus receives oxygen and nutrients necessary for growth and development. The umbilical arteries, on the other hand, remove carbon dioxide and metabolic waste products from the fetal circulation.


The primary function of the umbilical cord is to transport oxygen and nutrients from the mother to the fetus, and to carry waste products away from the fetus. It also serves as a source of [[stem cells]], which can be used in medical treatments.
The umbilical cord also plays a role in the regulation of fetal blood flow. The presence of Wharton's jelly helps prevent kinking or compression of the cord, which could otherwise compromise blood flow.


==Clinical significance==
==Development==
The umbilical cord begins to form around the fifth week of gestation. It develops from the yolk sac and allantois, structures that are part of the early embryonic development. As the fetus grows, the cord elongates and becomes more coiled.


Problems with the umbilical cord can lead to serious complications during pregnancy and childbirth. These can include [[umbilical cord prolapse]], where the cord drops through the cervix before the baby, and [[umbilical cord compression]], which can reduce blood flow to the fetus.
==Clinical Significance==
===Umbilical Cord Abnormalities===
Several conditions can affect the umbilical cord, including:
* '''[[Nuchal cord]]''': This occurs when the umbilical cord wraps around the fetal neck. It is a common occurrence and often does not cause harm.
* '''[[True knot]]''': A true knot in the umbilical cord can potentially restrict blood flow, although many knots do not cause problems.
* '''[[Single umbilical artery]]''': This is a condition where one of the umbilical arteries is absent. It can be associated with other congenital anomalies.


==See also==
===Umbilical Cord Blood===
Umbilical cord blood is a rich source of [[hematopoietic stem cells]], which can be used in the treatment of various blood disorders and immune deficiencies. Cord blood banking is an option for parents who wish to preserve these cells for potential future use.


==After Birth==
After delivery, the umbilical cord is clamped and cut, leaving a small stump on the newborn's abdomen. This stump typically dries and falls off within the first few weeks of life, leaving the [[umbilicus]], or belly button.
== Gallery ==
<gallery>
File:Umbilicalcord.jpg|Umbilical cord
File:Cross_section_of_the_umbilical_cord.jpg|Cross section of the umbilical cord
File:8w3d_with_umbilical_cord.gif|8 weeks 3 days with umbilical cord
File:Knotted_cord.jpg|Knotted cord
File:Caesarean_section_operation_-cutting_the_umbilical_cord-8Feb2011.jpg|Caesarean section operation - cutting the umbilical cord
File:Umbical_cord_clamp_2005.jpg|Umbilical cord clamp
File:Human-Male-Newborn-Infant-Baby.jpg|Umbilical cord
File:Detached_Umbilical_Cord.jpg|Detached umbilical cord
File:Gray34.png|Umbilical cord
File:Gray38.png|Umbilical cord
File:Newborn_umbilical_suction.jpg|Newborn umbilical suction
File:Slide2BLA.JPG|Umbilical cord
</gallery>
==Related Pages==
* [[Placenta]]
* [[Placenta]]
* [[Fetus]]
* [[Fetal circulation]]
* [[Pregnancy]]
* [[Amniotic fluid]]
* [[Umbilical cord prolapse]]
* [[Neonatal care]]
* [[Umbilical cord compression]]
 
==References==
 
<references />


[[Category:Obstetrics]]
[[Category:Anatomy]]
[[Category:Anatomy]]
[[Category:Pregnancy]]
[[Category:Embryology]]
[[Category:Developmental biology]]
 
{{stub}}

Latest revision as of 02:46, 19 February 2025

A structure connecting a developing fetus to the placenta


The umbilical cord is a vital structure in fetal development, serving as the lifeline between the developing fetus and the placenta. It facilitates the exchange of nutrients, gases, and waste products between the mother and the fetus.

Structure[edit]

The umbilical cord typically measures about 50 to 60 centimeters in length and 2 centimeters in diameter at full term. It is composed of three blood vessels: two umbilical arteries and one umbilical vein. The umbilical arteries carry deoxygenated blood and waste products from the fetus to the placenta, while the umbilical vein carries oxygenated blood and nutrients from the placenta to the fetus.

The cord is surrounded by a gelatinous substance known as Wharton's jelly, which provides cushioning and protection to the blood vessels. The outer layer of the cord is covered by a layer of amniotic epithelium.

Function[edit]

The primary function of the umbilical cord is to ensure the transfer of essential substances between the mother and the fetus. Through the umbilical vein, the fetus receives oxygen and nutrients necessary for growth and development. The umbilical arteries, on the other hand, remove carbon dioxide and metabolic waste products from the fetal circulation.

The umbilical cord also plays a role in the regulation of fetal blood flow. The presence of Wharton's jelly helps prevent kinking or compression of the cord, which could otherwise compromise blood flow.

Development[edit]

The umbilical cord begins to form around the fifth week of gestation. It develops from the yolk sac and allantois, structures that are part of the early embryonic development. As the fetus grows, the cord elongates and becomes more coiled.

Clinical Significance[edit]

Umbilical Cord Abnormalities[edit]

Several conditions can affect the umbilical cord, including:

  • Nuchal cord: This occurs when the umbilical cord wraps around the fetal neck. It is a common occurrence and often does not cause harm.
  • True knot: A true knot in the umbilical cord can potentially restrict blood flow, although many knots do not cause problems.
  • Single umbilical artery: This is a condition where one of the umbilical arteries is absent. It can be associated with other congenital anomalies.

Umbilical Cord Blood[edit]

Umbilical cord blood is a rich source of hematopoietic stem cells, which can be used in the treatment of various blood disorders and immune deficiencies. Cord blood banking is an option for parents who wish to preserve these cells for potential future use.

After Birth[edit]

After delivery, the umbilical cord is clamped and cut, leaving a small stump on the newborn's abdomen. This stump typically dries and falls off within the first few weeks of life, leaving the umbilicus, or belly button.

Gallery[edit]

Related Pages[edit]

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