Under normal circumstances, a fetus should have two umbilical arteries and one azygos vein. However, some pregnant women may have a single umbilical artery. The umbilical cord is a pathway for the fetus to absorb nutrients and maintain normal blood circulation to ensure healthy fetal development. However, does missing one umbilical artery have any impact on the fetus?
Missing one umbilical artery can have a certain impact on the fetus. A single umbilical artery may cause malnutrition in the fetus and may also lead to deformities in certain organs. However, pregnant women should not terminate the pregnancy easily. They can undergo malformation screening to see if there is a malformation confirmed after screening. If there is no malformation, the pregnancy can continue, but close observation is necessary until the fetus is born smoothly.
Having a single umbilical artery does not necessarily mean that the fetus is malformed, but rather that there is a higher possibility of malformation. In this case, the fetus's nutritional supply is reduced, and pregnant women should increase their nutrient intake, including high-quality protein, vitamins, and minerals, in order to ensure fetal development.
Single umbilical artery has little impact on delivery, as long as other conditions are met, it is generally possible to have a vaginal delivery. For pregnant women who are able to have a vaginal delivery, doctors will recommend it. Pregnant women should be mentally prepared, and if their body is not suitable for a vaginal delivery, doctors will also inform them in advance.
