The placenta serves numerous roles, including endocrine, immunological, and physiological. Within the first three months of pregnancy, the placenta develops gradually; following the fourth month, its growth parallels that of the uterus. After completion, it forms a 20 cm in diameter and 3 cm thick sponge disc. It’s a temporary organ whose genetic properties are similar to those of the growing fetus. The placenta reacts with its surrounding environment and vice versa. The proper growth of the placenta is crucial for a healthy pregnancy. This fragile organ is composed of many layers of tissue that must grow appropriately for optimal function throughout gestation. Without correct function, pregnancy might have fatal implications.

References

Embryology, placenta – StatPearls – NCBI bookshelf. (2021, May 8). National Center for Biotechnology Information. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK551634/

Placenta | Female reproductive system. (n.d.). Histology Guide – virtual microscopy laboratory. https://histologyguide.com//slideview/MH-175-placenta/18-slide-1.html