Overview
Overview
The placenta is a transient organ of fetal and maternal origin, weighing approximately 500 g (1/6 of fetal weight) at term.
The placenta is a transient organ of fetal and maternal origin, weighing approximately 500 g (1/6 of fetal weight) at term. It performs the functions of lung, kidney, liver, gastrointestinal tract, and endocrine organ for the fetus. Placental function underpins fetal survival, growth, and development throughout pregnancy.