Umpirauhasten

Umpirauhasten, also known as the *umbilical cord*, is a vital structure that connects a developing fetus to the placenta during pregnancy. It serves as a conduit for essential nutrients, oxygen, and waste exchange between the mother and the fetus through the maternal bloodstream. The cord typically contains two arteries and one vein, enclosed in a gelatinous substance called Wharton’s jelly, which provides protection and flexibility.

The length of the umbilical cord varies among pregnancies, generally ranging from 50 to 70 centimeters (20 to 28 inches) at birth, though it can be shorter or longer. It is attached to the placenta at one end and the fetus’s abdomen at the other, where it enters through the umbilicus (belly button). The cord plays a critical role in fetal development, ensuring proper growth and survival until birth.

After delivery, the umbilical cord is typically clamped and cut, leaving a small stump that eventually dries and falls off within one to three weeks. This process is known as the separation of the umbilical cord, marking the final stage of postnatal adaptation. In some cases, the umbilical cord may be preserved for medical research, stem cell banking, or cultural practices, though its primary function ceases at birth.

Complications involving the umbilical cord, such as prolapse, true knots, or abnormal insertion, can occur but are relatively rare. Proper prenatal care helps monitor cord health, ensuring a safe delivery. The umbilical cord’s structure and function highlight its importance in human reproduction and fetal physiology.