Functions of Placenta

Functions of Placenta

Placenta

The Placenta is a complex organ that is essential for the development and growth of a fetus during pregnancy. It is located within the uterus and is connected to both the fetus and the mother’s uterus through the umbilical cord.

9 Important Functions of Placenta 

  1. Transfers Nutrients 

 The placenta allows for the transfer of nutrients from the mother’s bloodstream to the fetal bloodstream providing the fetus with the energy and building blocks it needs to grow and develop.

  1. Transfers Oxygen 

The placenta also facilitates the transfer of oxygen from the mother’s bloodstream to the fetal bloodstream.

  1. Removes Waste

 The placenta removes waste products such as carbon dioxide and urea from the fetal bloodstream and returns them to the mother’s bloodstream to be eliminated.

Also Check – How does the Embryo get Nourishment Inside the Mother’s Body

  1. Produce Hormones

The placenta produces several hormones including human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), progesterone and estrogen which are important for maintaining the pregnancy to regulate fetal growth and development. The placenta also produces a hormone called human placental lactogen which helps regulate the mother’s metabolism and prepares her breasts for lactation.

  1. Regulates Mothers Immune System

The placenta helps to protect the fetus from the mother’s immune system which could otherwise recognize the fetus as a foreign invader and attack it.

Also Check 10 Important Layers and Structures of Placenta

  1. Controls the Exchange of Substances between the Mother and Fetus

The placenta acts as a barrier to certain substances such as drugs and infectious agents to protect the fetus from harm. It also has specialized cells called Hofbauer cells that can modulate the mother’s immune system to create a more hospitable environment for the fetus.

  1. Regulates the Blood Flow

The placenta regulates blood flow between the mother and the fetus ensuring that the fetus receives an adequate supply of oxygen and nutrients while also preventing excess blood flow.

  1. Regulates Temperature

The placenta helps to regulate the temperature of the fetal environment keeping it at a constant temperature.

  1. Metabolic functions

The placenta performs various metabolic functions, such as the synthesis of proteins and enzymes .The breakdown of nutrients and the storage of nutrients and waste products.

Also Check – Female Reproductive System

Also Check – Male Reproductive System

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