What is the main function of placenta?

The main function of the placenta is to provide a barrier between the maternal and fetal circulatory systems while allowing the exchange of oxygen, carbon dioxide, nutrients, and waste products.

Here are some specific functions of the placenta:

* Nutrient exchange: The placenta allows the exchange of nutrients between the mother and the fetus. Glucose, amino acids, fatty acids, and vitamins are transported from the mother to the fetus, while waste products such as carbon dioxide and urea are transported from the fetus to the mother.

* Gas exchange: The placenta allows the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide between the mother and the fetus. Oxygen diffuses from the maternal blood into the fetal blood, while carbon dioxide diffuses from the fetal blood into the maternal blood.

* Hormone production: The placenta produces a variety of hormones, including human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), estrogen, and progesterone. These hormones help to maintain the pregnancy and prepare the body for childbirth.

* Immune protection: The placenta produces a variety of immune factors that help to protect the fetus from maternal immune attack. These factors include immunosuppressive proteins and anti-inflammatory cytokines.

* Physical support: The placenta provides physical support for the fetus and helps to cushion it from impact. It also helps to maintain the amniotic fluid volume, which is essential for fetal development.

The placenta is a vital organ that plays a key role in the success of pregnancy. It provides the fetus with the nutrients, oxygen, and waste removal it needs to grow and develop, and it protects the fetus from maternal immune attack.