In fetal circulation, which structure allows blood from the right atrium to directly enter the left atrium?
A) umbilical cord
B) arterial duct
C) foramen ovale
D) venous duct
E) right ventricle

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In fetal circulation, the foramen ovale is a hole in the septum between the right and left atria that allows oxygenated blood from the placenta to bypass the fetal lungs and enter the left atrium directly, where it can be pumped out to the rest of the body. This allows the developing fetus to receive oxygen from the mother without having to breathe through its underdeveloped lungs.

In Fetal Circulation, Which Structure Allows Blood from the Right