Where does the umbilical vein deliver oxygenated blood in the fetus?

The umbilical vein plays a crucial role in fetal circulation by delivering oxygenated blood from the placenta to the developing fetus. Once this oxygen-rich blood enters the fetus, it is transported directly to the heart. This is significant because the heart acts as a central hub, pumping the oxygenated blood throughout the body, including to the brain and other vital organs. The first place the blood goes upon arriving from the umbilical vein is the right atrium of the heart, where it can then be routed to the left atrium and into systemic circulation to nourish all body tissues. Thus, the heart is the primary destination for the oxygenated blood delivered by the umbilical vein.