Question

When evaluating the umbilical cord, how many umbilical arteries and veins are typically present?

a) 1 artery, 1 vein
b) 1 artery, 2 veins
c) 2 arteries, 1 vein
d) 2 arteries, 2 veins

Answer 1

Typically, the umbilical cord consists of two umbilical arteries and one umbilical vein; the arteries carry depleted blood to the placenta, and the vein carries rich blood to the fetus.

Step-by-step explanation:

When evaluating the umbilical cord, the typical arrangement consists of two umbilical arteries and one umbilical vein. The umbilical arteries carry oxygen-depleted blood from the fetus to the placenta. In contrast, the single umbilical vein carries oxygen- and nutrient-rich blood from the placenta to the fetal heart. This setup is essential for the exchange of gases and nutrients between the mother and the fetus. After birth, the umbilical cord is cut, leaving a stub that eventually dries out and becomes the navel.