What is the primary mechanism by which fetal hemoglobin is able to extract oxygen from the mother's bloodstream?

A Increased affinity for oxygen due to 2,3-bisphosphoglycerate
B Decreased affinity for oxygen due to pH changes
C Increased affinity for oxygen due to the presence of gamma-globin chains ✓
D Decreased affinity for oxygen due to temperature changes

Explanation

Fetal hemoglobin has a higher affinity for oxygen due to the presence of gamma-globin chains, allowing it to extract oxygen from the mother's bloodstream.

Source

Guyton and Hall Textbook of Medical Physiology
Hematology Hematology: Hemoglobin and Oxygen Transport Hematology: Hemoglobin and Oxygen Transport Medium MEDICAL Confidence: high