What is the role of the umbilical cord in fetal development?

The umbilical cord plays a crucial role in fetal development by serving as the lifeline between the fetus and the placenta. One of its primary functions is to supply oxygen and nutrients from the mother's bloodstream to the developing fetus. Blood rich in oxygen and nutrients travels through the umbilical vein, while the waste products generated by the fetus are transported back to the mother through the umbilical arteries. This exchange is vital for the fetus's growth and overall health, as it needs a constant supply of oxygen and essential nutrients to develop properly.

In contrast, while the cord does connect the fetus to the placenta, its role extends far beyond that simple function, as it actively facilitates the critical exchange of elements needed for fetal life. The cord does not primarily act as a conduit for hormonal transfer; hormones produced by the mother can reach the fetus through the bloodstream, but this is not the umbilical cord's main purpose. Furthermore, the movement of the fetus is primarily facilitated by the muscular contractions of the uterus, not by the umbilical cord itself. Therefore, the correct choice highlights the essential functions of the umbilical cord in ensuring that the fetus receives essential life-sustaining elements while simultaneously allowing waste products to be removed effectively.