What it means
The cord normally has three vessels: two arteries that carry blood from the baby to the placenta, and one vein that carries oxygen-rich blood to the baby. A jelly-like substance (Wharton's jelly) protects them. After birth the cord is clamped and cut, and the stump dries and falls off in about 1 to 2 weeks.
For the nurse
Count the vessels after birth: two arteries and one vein. Teach parents to keep the stump clean and dry, fold the diaper below it, and report redness, swelling, bad smell or discharge.
Remember it
AVA: artery, vein, artery.
At a glance
| Spanish | cordón umbilical |
|---|---|
| Also written | umbilical-cord, umbilical cords |