Single Umbilical Artery (SUA) at 18 Weeks: What You Need to Know

Question
Good day,

My name is Vanessa and I am 18 weeks pregnant expecting a baby boy. I attended my 2nd tri ultrasound today where the baby looks healthy. The babys organs, limbs and heart were all rated and measured. The Dr. stated that everything was great except one thing; there is only one umbilical artery instead of 2. He asked to not be alarmed. I am completely concerned for my babys well being. I have researched and results show many things to worry about. What are the possibilities of abnormalities if the baby seems and shows to be healthy? Are there any techniques I can use to supply my baby with more oxygen and nutrition through the artery available? Thank you very much for your time and I appreciate any expertise you may have available.  

Answer
Dear Vanessa

Contrary to life after birth, the baby gets its nutrition and oxygen from the mother through the umbilical vein not the artery and the waste products and carbon dioxide are returned back to mother through the arter. That is why your docror tries to reaasure you about ur baby's growth.

However, more close surveillance may be needed with your doctor for antenatal care and im sure he will ask u for more visits as pregnancy advances.

Best of luck.