What's the role of the placenta?
What's the role of the placenta?
The placenta is a vital organ that plays a crucial role in supporting the growth and development of a fetus during pregnancy. It forms shortly after conception and is attached to the uterine wall, connecting the developing fetus to the mother's uterine circulation. Here are some key functions of the placenta:
Nutrient and Oxygen Exchange: The placenta acts as a bridge between the mother's bloodstream and the developing fetus. It allows for the exchange of nutrients, oxygen, and other essential substances from the mother's blood to the fetus while removing waste products and carbon dioxide from the fetal circulation. This ensures that the fetus receives the necessary nutrients and oxygen for growth and metabolism.
Waste Removal: The placenta also serves as a filter, removing metabolic waste products produced by the fetus, such as urea and carbon dioxide, from the fetal circulation and transferring them into the mother's bloodstream for elimination through her own excretory organs, primarily the kidneys and lungs.
Hormone Production: The placenta produces several hormones, including human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), progesterone, and estrogen. These hormones are essential for maintaining a healthy pregnancy. For example, hCG helps sustain the corpus luteum in the ovaries, which produces progesterone until the placenta can take over this role. Progesterone maintains the uterine lining and prevents it from shedding, supporting the implantation of the embryo.
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