The placenta is an organ that forms during pregnancy, connecting the developing fetus to the uterine wall, facilitating nutrient uptake, waste elimination, and gas exchange.
Characteristics of Placenta
- Dual Structure - It has both maternal and fetal components, with the fetal part being the chorionic villi and the maternal part being the decidua.
- Vascular Network - Rich in blood vessels, it allows efficient exchange of oxygen, nutrients, and waste products between mother and fetus.
- Hormone Production - Produces hormones like human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and progesterone, crucial for maintaining pregnancy.
Importance
- Nutrient and Gas Exchange - Provides essential nutrients and oxygen to the fetus and removes waste products.
- Immune Protection - Acts as a barrier to protect the fetus from poténtial infections and the mother's immune system.
- Hormonal Support - Produces hormones necessary to sustain pregnancy and prepare the mother's body for childbirth.
