Human Fetus in the Womb at 22 Weeks (Asian Skin)

Description

The fetus lies curled in the amniotic cavity in a flexed attitude, with the head turned toward the viewer, the rounded cranium dominating the body proportions typical of the second trimester. One hand rests near the face with individual fingers distinguishable, while the lower limbs are drawn up so that the sole and toes of the foot are visible above the flexed knees; the rounded back and gently curved vertebral column face the placenta. The umbilical cord leaves the anterior abdominal wall at the umbilical ring and spirals in its characteristic helical twist, the paired umbilical arteries and single umbilical vein indicated by contrasting colour as they course to the fetal surface of the placenta. The placenta itself appears as a discoid organ applied to the uterine wall, its chorionic plate ridged and the surrounding endometrial surface faintly vascularised. Twenty-two weeks sits at the threshold of viability and marks a stage frequently assessed at the mid-trimester anomaly scan, when biometry, limb and spine survey, placental location and cord insertion are all documented. The relationship shown here between cord insertion, cord coiling and placental disc underpins clinical evaluation of hypercoiled or hypocoiled cords, single umbilical artery, and marginal or velamentous insertion, all associated with growth restriction. The flexed fetal posture and free cord loops also illustrate the setting in which nuchal cord and amniotic fluid volume are judged on ultrasound. The rendering suits obstetric and midwifery teaching on second-trimester development, antenatal counselling material explaining what a scan at 22 weeks shows, and prenatal class handouts describing fetal position and cord anatomy. It also serves embryology atlases, ultrasound training modules and publication figures in perinatology, where a realistic reference view of fetus, cord and placenta is required alongside sonographic images. Anatomical accuracy verified by SciePro's Medical Advisory Board.