Question

What is placenta? Describe the different functions of placenta in brief.

Hint:

Placenta = "Lifeline of the fetus," supplying nutrients, oxygen, and hormones while removing waste.

Answer 1

The placenta is a temporary organ formed during pregnancy that connects the developing fetus to the uterine wall, facilitating nutrient and gas exchange.

The placenta performs several important functions:

• Nutritional function: Transfers nutrients like glucose and amino acids from the mother to the fetus.
• Respiratory function: Facilitates oxygen and carbon dioxide exchange between maternal and fetal blood.
• Excretory function: Removes fetal metabolic waste.
• Endocrine function: Produces hormones like progesterone and hCG to maintain pregnancy.