What role does glycogen play during fetal hypoxia?

During fetal hypoxia, glycogen plays a critical role as an essential fuel source for the developing fetus. In situations where oxygen levels are low, the fetus still requires energy to sustain its vital functions. Glycogen, which is stored in the liver and muscles, can be broken down into glucose and used for energy production, even in the absence of adequate oxygen.

This process helps to maintain the fetus's energy needs during periods of compromised oxygen supply. The availability of glycogen allows for anaerobic metabolism to take place, which can provide a short-term source of energy, though it is not as efficient as aerobic metabolism. This is particularly important because a newborn’s metabolic responses during hypoxia are crucial for their immediate survival.

In contrast, other roles attributed to the other choices do not accurately describe the function of glycogen during hypoxia in the fetus. Glycogen's primary purpose in this context is to provide energy rather than trigger any physiological impediments or act as a waste product.