Functions and Structure of the Placenta

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Questions and Answers

Which substance is NOT provided by the placenta?

  • Hormones (correct)
  • Oxygen
  • Glucose
  • Amino acids

The chorion helps to prevent the fetus from sticking to the amnion.

True (A)

What are the main functions of the amnion during pregnancy?

Protection from physical damage, shock absorption, even pressure.

The placenta drains _____, urea, and other wastes.

<p>CO2</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following functions with their corresponding placenta components:

<p>Provides O2 = Placenta Protection from damage = Amnion Allows restricted movement = Chorion Shock absorption = Amnion</p> Signup and view all the answers

What hormone triggers uterine contractions during childbirth?

<p>Oxytocin (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The placenta is expelled before the baby is born.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What happens to the uterus after childbirth?

<p>It gradually shrinks back to normal size.</p> Signup and view all the answers

The umbilical cord is __________ and cut after childbirth.

<p>tied</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the components of childbirth with their descriptions:

<p>Uterine contractions = Triggered by oxytocin Labor pains = Begins the birthing process Placenta = Detaches from the uterus after birth Baby crying = A natural respiratory process</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Placenta Function

The placenta provides nutrients and oxygen to the fetus and removes waste products.

Amniotic Fluid Function

Fluid within the amniotic sac that protects the fetus from physical damage, and shock absorption.

Components of Placenta

Placenta is composed of interlinked structures like placental villi, and chorion which enable the transfer of nutrients, gases, and waste between mother and fetus.

Umbilical Cord

Connects the fetus to the placenta; responsible for nutrient delivery and waste removal.

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Placental Villi

Tiny finger-like projections in the placenta that increase the surface area for nutrient and waste exchange.

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Uterine Contractions

Powerful muscle contractions in the uterus, triggered by oxytocin, that help expel the baby.

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Oxytocin

A hormone released by the pituitary gland that stimulates uterine contractions during labor.

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Labor Pains

Pain caused by uterine contractions that signal the beginning of childbirth.

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Placenta Detachment

The separation of the placenta from the uterine wall after childbirth, which is normally expelled shortly after the baby.

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Uterine Recovery

The process by which the uterus shrinks back to its normal size after childbirth, typically over a few days.

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Study Notes

Functions of the Placenta

  • The placenta performs vital functions, including providing oxygen and nutrients to the developing fetus and removing waste products.
  • It secretes hormones like progesterone and estrogen, crucial for maintaining pregnancy.
  • It also plays a role in transferring antibodies to the fetus for immune protection.

Placenta Structure

  • The placenta is attached to the uterine wall via placental villi.
  • These structures facilitate efficient exchange of substances between mother and fetus.
  • The umbilical cord connects the fetus to the placenta.

Amniotic Fluid

  • Amniotic fluid cushions and protects the developing fetus.
  • It allows for free movement and prevents physical damage.
  • The fluid also protects the fetus from pressure fluctuations.

Chorion

  • The chorion is a protective membrane external to the amnion.
  • It aids in preventing adherence of the fetus to the amnion.
  • The chorion also contributes to overall fetal protection.

Yolk Sac and Allantois

  • The yolk sac and allantois play specific roles in early embryonic development.
  • Their function(s) not specified in notes.

Umbilical Cord

  • The umbilical cord facilitates transport of substances between the fetus and placenta.
  • It provides nutrients and oxygen to the fetus and carries waste away.

Ovum

  • The ovum, or egg, contains vital genetic material.
  • Surrounding structures like the zona pellucida and corona radiata are also important to fertilization.

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