Slideshow: Clinical Highlights

The Umbilical Cord

#103, Slide 47 of 58

6 weeks, 6 days

From The Biology of Prenatal Development.

Note:

Loops of the intestine temporarily move out of the crowded abdomen into the umbilical cord. This normal process is called "physiologic herniation." The rapidly growing liver fills the abdomen, temporarily leaving little room for other organs.

Label Key:

1. umbilical vein

2. base of umbilical cord

3. abdominal wall

4. loops of intestine

5. liver

All ages referenced to fertilization, not last menstrual period.

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