How many vessels are typically found in the umbilical cord?

The umbilical cord typically contains one vein and two arteries. This standard configuration is crucial for fetal development during pregnancy. The single vein is responsible for delivering oxygenated blood and essential nutrients from the placenta to the fetus. In contrast, the two arteries carry deoxygenated blood and waste products from the fetus back to the placenta for filtration.

The presence of two arteries and one vein reflects the evolutionary efficiency of the fetal circulation system, as it allows for optimal fetal health and growth while maximizing nutrient delivery and waste removal. Understanding this anatomy is fundamental for midwifery and related practices, as it plays a key role in monitoring fetal well-being during prenatal care and labor.