This organ is attached to the wall of theuterus, with the babys umbilical cord arising from it.
What Is the Placenta?
The placenta is a temporary organ that develops in the uterus during pregnancy.
It connects the uterus to the developing baby and performs many vital functions.
Anatomy
The largest fetal organ, the placenta undergoes rapid development over the course of pregnancy.
The placenta has two different sides, thematernal sideand thefetal side.
These are held together by outgrowths, called anchoring villi, from the maternal component.
It forms what is called the decidua basalis, or maternal placenta.
The placenta forms in the uterine wall where the fertilized egg implants.
Anatomical Variations
Not every placenta forms regularly.
The placenta performs many critical roles including:
What Complications Can Affect the Placenta?
Oftentimes, the core of the problem has to do with the position of this organ.
This typically occurs within 30 minutes after the baby is delivered.
Summary
The placenta is an essential organ that provides food and oxygen to the fetus during pregnancy.
It is made up of the chorion, amnion, and umbilical cord.
The largest fetal organ, the placenta undergoes rapid development over the course of pregnancy.
Some of these conditions can be very serious and potentially life-threatening.
To improve the chances of a healthy pregnancy, it’s important to receive early and regular prenatal care.
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