What is the primary function of the placenta, a temporary organ that develops during pregnancy?

Explanation

The placenta is a temporary but vital organ that develops within the uterus during pregnancy, attaching to the uterine wall and connecting to the fetus via the umbilical cord, allowing for the essential exchange of oxygen, nutrients, and waste products between the mother’s bloodstream and that of the developing fetus, generally without the two blood supplies directly mixing. Beyond this exchange function, the placenta also produces several important hormones that help support and maintain a healthy pregnancy. After childbirth, the placenta is expelled from the mother’s body in a stage of labor commonly referred to as the afterbirth. Explore more Everyday Science MCQs on mcqstutor to keep practicing.