Which process normally occurs at the placenta?

The placenta is a temporary organ that develops in the uterus during pregnancy. It provides oxygen and nutrients to the developing fetus and removes waste products. The placenta also produces hormones that are essential for pregnancy.

Here are some of the processes that occur at the placenta:

* Oxygen and nutrient exchange: The placenta is lined with tiny blood vessels called capillaries. These capillaries allow oxygen and nutrients to pass from the mother's blood into the fetus's blood. At the same time, waste products from the fetus's blood pass into the mother's blood.

* Hormone production: The placenta produces a number of hormones that are essential for pregnancy. These hormones include:

* Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG): hCG is produced by the placenta early in pregnancy. It helps to maintain the corpus luteum, which is a small gland that produces progesterone. Progesterone is essential for maintaining the pregnancy.

* Estrogen: Estrogen is produced by the placenta later in pregnancy. It helps to prepare the body for labor and delivery.

* Progesterone: Progesterone is produced by the placenta throughout pregnancy. It helps to maintain the pregnancy and prevent premature labor.

The placenta is a vital organ for pregnancy. It provides the developing fetus with the oxygen, nutrients, and hormones it needs to grow and develop properly.