How is oxygenated blood delivered to the fetus?

Oxygenated blood is delivered to the fetus primarily through the umbilical vein. In fetal physiology, the placenta plays a critical role as the interface between maternal and fetal blood supplies. The placenta allows oxygen and nutrients from maternal blood to diffuse into the fetal bloodstream while simultaneously facilitating the removal of waste products from the fetus.

The umbilical vein carries this oxygen-rich blood from the placenta to the fetus. Once the oxygenated blood reaches the fetus, it enters the fetal circulatory system, where it is distributed to the developing organs and tissues.

While the umbilical arteries carry deoxygenated blood away from the fetus back to the placenta, and maternal circulation provides the overall supply of blood, it is the umbilical vein that specifically facilitates the delivery of oxygenated blood necessary for fetal development. Understanding this process is crucial for grasping the unique aspects of fetal circulation and the vital role the placenta plays in sustaining the developing fetus.