The Umbilical Cord is the medical cord that connects the fetus to the placenta inside the mother's womb during pregnancy. It functions to transport oxygen and nutrients from the mother to the fetus, while also removing waste from the fetus's blood. After birth, the umbilical cord is cut, leaving a small portion attached to the newborn's belly button. The remaining part typically falls off within about two weeks. The umbilical cord is handled in a sterile manner to prevent infection after birth.