Fetal circulation: Differs from the adult circulation due to

Fetal circulation differs from the adult circulation due to the presence of certain vessels and shunts. These shunts close after birth, and most of the fetal vessels are visible as remnants in the adult circulation . The function of these shunts ... Learn how the fetal circulatory system works during pregnancy and how it changes at birth. See the pathways and shunts of blood flow in the fetus and the newborn, and the role of the placenta and the umbilical cord. Fetal circulation is different from adult circulation because the fetus' blood doesn't mix with the mother's blood. The placenta acts as a filter, so the baby receives nutrients and oxygen from the mother, and sends its metabolic wastes into the mother's circulation for elimination. The fetal circulatory system has some special adaptations, such as the foramen ovale, an opening between fetal heart atria; the ductus arteriosus, a small vessels that shunts blood from the pulmonary artery to ... Fetal circulation differs from adult circulation in a variety of ways to support the unique physiologic needs of a developing fetus. Vascular structures formed early in gestation provide an initial platform for gas exchange and nutrient delivery. Specialized circulatory structures required for systemic circulation then form later in gestation to support the metabolic needs of the fetus before birth.