The average length of the umbilical cord is:
A. 50 cm
B. 52 cm
C. 54 cm
D. 56 cm
Correct answer: A. 50 cm
Explanation
Question: The average length of the umbilical cord is — Explain.
Explanation:
The umbilical cord is the lifeline between the fetus and the placenta. It contains two arteries and one vein, surrounded by Wharton’s jelly, and allows the exchange of oxygen, nutrients, and waste products.
Average length
- The average length of the umbilical cord at term is about 50–60 cm
- Most commonly accepted average: ~50 cm
Why 50 cm is considered average
- This length is sufficient for normal fetal movements
- It allows safe vaginal delivery without excessive tension
- It minimizes complications related to cord length
Clinical significance
- Short cord (< 35 cm):
- May restrict fetal movement
- Can cause placental separation during delivery
- Long cord (> 80–100 cm):
- Risk of cord prolapse
- Cord entanglement or true knots
Conclusion
👉 The correct answer is: 50 cm, as it represents the average and normal length of the umbilical cord at term.
Other Options Details
The average length of the umbilical cord at term is about 50 cm.
Now, explanation of all options:
A. 50 cm — Correct answer ✅
- This is the normal average length of the umbilical cord at full-term pregnancy.
- It allows free fetal movement without excessive risk.
- Most textbooks mention 50–55 cm as normal, with 50 cm taken as the standard average.
B. 52 cm
- Slightly longer than the average.
- Still considered within normal limits.
- Does not usually cause complications.
C. 54 cm
- On the higher side of normal length.
- Long cords may sometimes be associated with:
- Cord entanglement
- True knots
- However, many babies with this length are born without problems.
D. 56 cm
- Considered longer than average.
- Long umbilical cords may increase risk of:
- Cord prolapse
- True knot formation
- Fetal distress (in rare cases)
Final Answer:
👉 A. 50 cm is the average length of the umbilical cord.
I hope that you liked this article.
Thanks!! 🙏 😊
Writer: Vandita Singh, Lucknow (GS India Nursing Group