Role of placenta

Protection

Maternal blood and foetal blood do not mix.

This ensures that the pathogens and toxins from maternal blood do not reach the foetus.

The placenta allows maternal antibodies to pass into the foetus, providing the foetus with
immunity.

Nutrition

The placenta facilitates the transfer of nutrients from maternal blood to foetus.

Excretion

Placenta facilitates the removal of nitrogenous wastes from the foetus' blood to maternal blood.

Gaseous exchange

Oxygen from the maternal blood diffuses into the foetal blood while carbon (IV) oxide from
foetal blood diffuse into maternal blood.

Production of hormones

Placenta produces progesterone and oestrogen.

Gestation period
The period between conception and birth is called gestation.

In humans gestation takes nine months (40 weeks).

The embryo differentiates into tissues and organs during this period.

Week 1 to 3:

Zygote divides to form blastocyst.

Implantation takes place.

The three germ layers form endoderm, mesoderm and ectoderm.

Nervous system starts to form.

Week 4 to 7:

Development of circulating and digestive systems.

Further development of nervous system, formation of sensory organs,

All major internal organs are developed.

At week 5, heartbeat starts.

Week 8 to 24:

All organs well developed including sex organs.

Hair, finger and toe nails grow.

Foetus move and eyelids open.

Week 25- 30:

The fully developed foetus responds to touch and noises and moves vigorously.

The head turns and faces downwards ready for birth.

Week 31-40:

Foetus increases in size.

Birth occurs.
Reproductive Hormones