The umbilical cord is the lifeline between the fetus and the placenta, about 50-60 cm long at term. It normally contains two arteries and one vein, cushioned by a jelly-like substance (Wharton jelly).
| Location | From the fetal umbilicus to the fetal surface of the placenta |
|---|---|
| Parts |
|
| Nerve Supply | None (no nerves) |
| Blood Supply | Umbilical arteries (carry deoxygenated blood to the placenta) |
| Venous drainage |
|
| Lymphatic drainage |
|
Carries oxygen and nutrients from the placenta to the fetus and returns waste and carbon dioxide.
A cord with only one artery is linked to other fetal anomalies. Cord prolapse, knots and compression can cut off fetal oxygen during labour. Cord blood is used for blood gas testing at birth and can be stored for stem cells. After birth the vessels become ligaments of the abdominal wall.
The cord slipping ahead of the baby in labour, risking compression and fetal hypoxia.
A cord with one artery, associated with growth problems and other anomalies.
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