Human Fetus at 36 Weeks in the Womb (Brown Skin)

Description

At approximately 36 weeks of gestation, the fetus lies in the amniotic cavity in the characteristic flexed attitude, with the head bowed toward the chest, the arms folded across the thorax and the hips and knees drawn up so that the foot and toes rest near the trunk. The skin now appears smooth and well padded with subcutaneous fat, the external ear is fully modelled with a firm helical rim, and scalp hair is abundant over the cranial vault. The umbilical cord is seen coiling from the anterior abdominal wall toward the placenta, its two umbilical arteries and single umbilical vein indicated by the spiralling colour of the vessels beneath the amniotic covering. Behind the fetus the discoid placenta is sectioned against the muscular uterine wall, its maternal surface and cotyledon-like tissue visible where it meets the endometrium. The late third trimester is the period in which fetal growth, lung maturation and the assumption of a stable presentation determine obstetric management. A view of this kind supports discussion of cephalic versus breech lie, engagement of the presenting part, cord coiling and nuchal loops, and placental site as assessed on late ultrasound. It is also the anatomy underlying counselling on late preterm versus term delivery, fetal movement monitoring, estimated fetal weight, and the relationship between crowded intrauterine space and the flexed posture seen at birth. The rendering suits obstetric and midwifery teaching on the third trimester, antenatal class material, ultrasound and prenatal screening references, and textbook or journal figures on fetal development. It is equally effective in patient-facing leaflets and clinic displays that explain to expectant parents how the baby lies in the womb shortly before labour. Anatomical accuracy verified by SciePro's Medical Advisory Board.