circulation changes at birth

Last reviewed 06/2021

The key events underlying changes to the fetal circulation after birth are the:

  • initiation of respiration
  • ending of placental blood flow

The circulation changes at birth may be considered in terms of changes to the:

  • umbilical arteries
  • umbilical veins
  • ductus venosus
  • ductus arteriosus
  • foramen ovale