Should you have a placenta at 8 weeks?

Yes, it is expected to have a placenta at 8 weeks of pregnancy. The placenta develops from the same embryonic tissue as the fetus around the third week of gestation. During week 8 of pregnancy, the placenta continues to grow and increase its complexity to fulfill its roles in facilitating nutrient and oxygen exchange, removing waste products, producing hormones such as progesterone and estrogen, and providing some level of protection for the developing fetus. By week 8, the placenta is functional and starts performing its vital role in supporting the ongoing pregnancy.