Placenta
Contents |
Broader Terms
Related Terms
Scope Note
highly vascularized mammalian fetal-maternal organ and major site of transport of oxygen, nutrients, and fetal waste products; it includes a fetal portion, the chorionic villi, and a maternal portion, the decidua; the placenta produces an array of steroid, protein and peptide hormones.
Facts
- The placenta is an organ within the uterus which acts as an exchange system between the mother and the baby.
- During pregnancy the placenta is part of the mother, existing for the specific purpose of nourishing the baby until birth, after which it is expelled, ceasing to be part of the her.
- It delivers oxygen and nutrients to - and takes waste away from - the fetus during pregnancy.
- Essential during pregnancy for growth and development of the embryo and fetus. Also called afterbirth.
Disscusion
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