The foramen ovale is located in the middle of the septum of the right and left atria.
The normal heart is divided into four chambers, the right and left atria and the right and left ventricles. Between the right and left atria is a membrane called the interatrial septum. The foramen ovale is located in the middle of the septum.
During fetal life, the foramen ovale is open to allow blood from the right and left atria to connect and establish effective circulation because the fetal lungs have not yet expanded to establish pulmonary circulation. After the fetus is born, the establishment of pulmonary circulation increases the pressure in the atria, and closure of the foramen ovale occurs, losing its physiologic and anatomic function.
If the foramen ovale is not closed after 6 months after the birth of the fetus, headache, dizziness, dyspnea, weakness and other symptoms will occur. At this time, it is necessary to consult a doctor in time, so as not to miss the condition.