Does a fetus respire in the womb?

Answer 1

No. The lungs of the fetus are actually filled with fluid until birth and are non-functional. The growing fetus possesses two anatomical structures called shunts that direct blood away from the developing lungs. One is called the foramen ovale, which allows passage of blood from the right to left atrium, bypassing the right ventricle and therefore the blood circulation to the lungs. The other is called the ductus arteriosus, which allows passage of blood from the pulmonary trunk to the aorta. This also reduces the volume of blood in the circulation to the lungs. Gas exchange occurs across the placenta, so any blood that reaches the fetal lungs is only used in the development of those organs.

Answer 2

In a way. All the nutrients are provided by the mother, including oxygen so the mother physically respires for the baby.