Navelstring is a noun that refers to the umbilical cord, especially in its residual form after it has been cut at birth. It is derived from the combination of the words "navel" and "string," which depict its physical characteristics and location. The term is primarily used in medical and biological contexts.
The navelstring is a vital structure connecting a fetus to the placenta, enabling the exchange of nutrients, oxygen, and waste products between the unborn child and the mother. It forms during the early stages of pregnancy and is composed of blood vessels, including arteries and veins, encased in a gelatinous substance known as Wharton's jelly.
Once the baby is born, the navelstring is usually clamped and cut close to the navel, separating the child from the placenta. The remaining part of the navelstring attached to the newborn then dries and shrivels over time, forming the umbilical stump, which eventually falls off within a few weeks.
The navelstring holds immense significance in the medical field as it serves as a lifeline during fetal development and childbirth. It is carefully managed and monitored by healthcare professionals to ensure the baby's health and prevent any complications. Furthermore, the navelstring also plays a significant role in stem cell research and cord blood banking, where stem cells from the cord blood are collected and stored for potential future medical use.
The word "navelstring" is a compound word formed by combining the nouns "navel" and "string".
- "Navel" comes from the Old English word "nafela", which was derived from the Proto-Germanic word "nabalan" meaning "navel".
- "String" originates from the Old English word "streng", which evolved from the Proto-Germanic word "strangiz" meaning "rope" or "cord".
Combining these two words, "navelstring" refers to the cord that connects a fetus to the placenta in the womb, also known as the umbilical cord.