The placenta is an important aspect of female reproduction and gestation

Placenta forms in response to an implantation of a fertilized egg.

It allows for the umbilical cord to attach to the fetus to allow for nutrition

The placenta continues to grow throughout pregnancy

Functions:

– Maternal blood flow that brings nutrition to fetus
– Removal of waste products
– Production of progesterone during pregnancy

During birth the placenta is delivered which is referred to as an “afterbirth“.