The Placenta: How It Supports Fetal Development

The placenta supports the fetus via:

1. Nutrient/gas exchange: Oxygen/nutrients in; CO2/waste out.
2. Nutrient transport regulation: Glucose, amino acids, vitamins, minerals.
3. Oxygen exchange.
4. Waste removal: CO2, urea, creatinine to maternal circulation.
5. Hormone production: hCG, estrogen, progesterone, hPL.
6. Barrier function: Blocks toxins/pathogens.
7. Immune support: Maternal antibodies transfer.

Vital for fetal survival and development.