The following are the characteristics of fetal umbilical cord
A. Umbilical cord has sensory nerve endings
B. Umbilical cord contains 2 arteries and 1 vein
C. Umbilical cord is enclosed and protected by Wharton’s jelly
D. Umbilical cord transports oxygen and nutrients to the developing fetus
Correct Answer: A. Umbilical cord has sensory nerve endings
Explanation
The fetal umbilical cord is a vital structure that connects the fetus to the placenta and supports fetal growth and survival. The main characteristics are explained below:
- Number of vessels
The umbilical cord normally contains three blood vessels:- Two umbilical arteries: These carry deoxygenated blood and waste products from the fetus to the placenta.
- One umbilical vein: This carries oxygenated blood and nutrients from the placenta to the fetus.
- Wharton’s jelly
The blood vessels are surrounded by a soft, gelatinous substance called Wharton’s jelly.- It protects the vessels from compression or kinking.
- It helps maintain continuous blood flow between the fetus and placenta.
- Covering
The umbilical cord is covered by amnion, which protects it and allows free movement within the amniotic fluid. - Length and appearance
- The average length of the umbilical cord is about 50–60 cm at term.
- It is usually twisted or coiled, which provides strength and flexibility.
- Nerve supply
The umbilical cord does not have sensory nerve endings, which is why cutting the cord after birth is painless for the baby. - Function
The umbilical cord acts as a lifeline, transporting:- Oxygen and nutrients to the fetus
- Carbon dioxide and waste products from the fetus to the placenta
In summary, the fetal umbilical cord is a flexible, well-protected structure containing two arteries and one vein, embedded in Wharton’s jelly, and responsible for exchange of gases, nutrients, and waste between the mother and fetus.
Other Options Details
Here is a clear description of each option related to the umbilical cord:
A. Umbilical cord has sensory nerve endings
- Description:
This statement is incorrect.
The umbilical cord does not contain sensory nerve endings, which is why cutting the cord after birth does not cause pain to the newborn. Its function is circulation, not sensation.
B. Umbilical cord contains 2 arteries and 1 vein
- Description:
This statement is correct.
Normally, the umbilical cord has:- Two umbilical arteries → carry deoxygenated blood and waste products from the fetus to the placenta
- One umbilical vein → carries oxygenated blood and nutrients from the placenta to the fetus
C. Umbilical cord is enclosed and protected by Wharton’s jelly
- Description:
This statement is correct.
Wharton’s jelly is a gelatinous connective tissue that:- Protects umbilical blood vessels
- Prevents compression or kinking
- Maintains continuous blood flow between placenta and fetus
D. Umbilical cord transports oxygen and nutrients to the developing fetus
- Description:
This statement is correct.
The umbilical cord acts as a lifeline, allowing:- Oxygen and nutrients to reach the fetus via the umbilical vein
- Removal of carbon dioxide and waste products via the umbilical arteries
✅ Summary
- Option A – Incorrect
- Options B, C, and D – Correct
I hope that you liked this article.
Thanks!! 🙏 😊
Writer: Vandita Singh, Lucknow (GS India Nursing Group