In fetal circulation, most blood is shunted away from the lungs. Why is this the case?
A) The lungs have their own circulation.
B) The lungs don't need any blood.
C) The lungs do not form until right before birth.
D) The fetus receives oxygen at the placenta, and the lungs are not yet fully functional.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The fetus receives oxygen through the placenta, and the lungs are not yet fully functional. Therefore, most of the blood is shunted away from the lungs and directed towards the rest of the body, where it is needed for growth and development. This is achieved through the presence of several fetal shunts, such as the ductus arteriosus and foramen ovale, which allow blood to bypass the lungs and reach the systemic circulation.

In Fetal Circulation, Most Blood Is Shunted Away from the Lungs