10 Functions of a Placenta

The placenta is an amazing organ that serves many important functions during pregnancy.

Here are 10 functions of the placenta:

1. It serves as a bridge between mother and baby, allowing the exchange of gases, nutrients, and waste.
2. It produces hormones that help to maintain the pregnancy and ensure proper fetal development.
3. It helps to protect the baby from bacteria and other potentially harmful substances.
4. It produces a hormone called human placental lactogen (hPL) which helps the baby to store fat and to grow.
5. It acts as an energy source for the developing fetus.
6. It helps to regulate the baby's temperature and provide a constant supply of oxygen.
7. It helps to filter out some substances from the maternal blood that may be harmful to the baby.
8. It helps to regulate the mother's immune system and prevents it from attacking the baby.
9. It helps to keep the uterus healthy and functioning properly.
10. It helps to provide the necessary nutrients and oxygen to the fetus throughout pregnancy.