Understanding the Fetal-Placenta Connection: The Umbilical Cord

The fetus is connected to the placenta through the umbilical cord. The umbilical cord is a flexible, cord-like structure that extends from the fetus's abdomen to the placenta. It contains three blood vessels: one vein and two arteries. The vein carries oxygen-rich blood and nutrients from the mother to the fetus. The arteries carry carbon dioxide and waste products from the fetus to the mother.