umbilical vein

anatomy

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July 14, 2026

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The umbilical vein is a crucial component of the fetal circulatory system, responsible for transporting oxygenated blood and nutrients from the placenta to the developing fetus. This vein, along with two umbilical arteries, is contained within the umbilical cord, which connects the fetus to the placenta. The placenta itself is an organ that facilitates metabolic exchange between the mother and fetus, providing nourishment, oxygen, and antibodies while removing waste products like carbon dioxide. The umbilical vein carries this vital, purified blood from the placenta back to the fetus, completing a critical circuit for fetal development. After birth, the umbilical cord is no longer needed and is severed.12

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human cardiovascular system
Human fetal circulation
… to the fetus by the umbilical vein. It then passes to the inferior vena cava of the fetus by way of a vessel called the ductus venosus. From the inferior vena cava, the blood enters the right atrium, then passes through the foramen ovale into the left atrium; from there…
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… to the fetus by the umbilical vein. It then passes to the inferior vena cava of the fetus by way of a vessel called the ductus venosus. From the inferior vena cava, the blood enters the right atrium, then passes through the foramen ovale into the left atrium; from there…
Read More