Wordy Wednesday: How Babies Breath in the Womb

The Umbilical Cord

1. While in the womb, a baby is completely dependent on its mother for sustenance, which is provided through the umbilical cord. The umbilical cord comprises two arteries and one vein that give the baby a constant supply of oxygenated and nutrient-filled blood from the placenta. This is how the baby is given nutrients for it to grow and develop. The oxygenated blood also provides air for the baby.

The Womb

2. While in the womb, the baby's lungs are filled with fluid, which is not breathable. Babies in gestation do not "breathe,"; instead, they ingest air through fluid and blood. This provides the baby with the air it needs. It is a misconception that babies "breathe" while in the womb. A baby can practice "breathing" while in the womb and even experience hiccups, but she is not actually breathing air.

Birth

3. When a baby is born, he must breathe for the first time. Due to being filled with fluid and the challenges of labor, a baby's first breath is sometimes a challenging and stressful moment. The infant must start processing oxygen through its lungs and deal with blood circulation.