- The placenta is responsible for metabolism (fetal digestive tract), endocrine secretions, and transfer (fetal pulmonary and renal system).
- Umbilical cord has two arteries and vein.
- Bypass structures in fetal circulation are:
- Foramen ovale - an opening between right and left atria of heart bypassing lungs.
- Ductus arteriosus - connects pulmonary artery and aorta, bypassing lungs.
- Ductus venosus - connects umbilical vein and inferior vena cava, bypassing liver.
