Cardiovascular changes that cause the foramen ovale to close at birth are a direct result of:
A) increased pressure in the right atrium.
B) increased pressure in the left atrium.
C) decreased blood flow to the left ventricle.
D) changes in the hepatic blood flow.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

With the increase in the blood flow to the left atrium from the lungs,the pressure is increased,and the foramen ovale is functionally closed.The pressure in the right atrium decreases at birth.It is higher during fetal life.Blood flow increases to the left ventricle after birth.The hepatic blood flow changes,but that is not the reason for the closure of the foramen ovale.

Cardiovascular Changes That Cause the Foramen Ovale to Close at Birth