When it comes to pregnancy, the placenta plays a crucial role. This remarkable organ forms in your body alongside your developing baby, acting as a vital hub for all your baby’s needs. If you’re curious about the details surrounding the placenta—like when it forms and its specific functions—you’re in the right place.
Your healthcare provider will monitor both your baby and placenta throughout your pregnancy, as they are closely linked. To help you understand this essential pregnancy organ better, here’s a comprehensive overview of placental development.
What is the placenta?
The placenta is a temporary organ that forms in your uterus during pregnancy. As noted by the Mayo Clinic, it “provides oxygen and nutrients to your growing baby and removes waste products.” In short, it serves as a lifeline between your baby and your bloodstream. The placenta has two components: the fetal placenta (chorion frondosum) and the maternal placenta (decidua basalis), which develop from the same blastocyst that gives rise to your baby and the uterine tissue.
When does the placenta form?
To grasp when the placenta forms, let’s revisit the journey of conception. When you ovulate, an egg is released from the ovary and travels through the fallopian tube, ideally getting fertilized. Once fertilized, the egg, now called a zygote, begins to divide. This division continues as the zygote reaches the uterus, transforming into a blastocyst. Some cells from the blastocyst will start to form the placenta, while others will develop into the fetus. This process is known as implantation.
By the end of the 8th week post-fertilization, or around 10 weeks into your pregnancy, the embryo is classified as a fetus. At this stage, the placenta has formed and is actively developing. By 18 to 20 weeks, it is fully developed but continues to grow throughout the pregnancy. By the time you reach 34 weeks, the placenta is deemed “mature.”
When does the placenta take over?
The placenta has several critical roles, including hormone production and nutrient delivery. It typically takes over these functions between 8 to 12 weeks of pregnancy, with the average being around 10 weeks.
What is an anterior placenta?
An anterior placenta refers to the location of the placenta in your uterus. In most cases, the fertilized egg attaches to the back of the uterus, closer to the spine. However, if the placenta grows on the front side, your baby will be positioned behind it. Don’t worry—this doesn’t affect your baby’s health. However, you might find it harder to feel your baby’s movements, as the placenta can cushion their kicks.
What are some possible placental complications?
While the placenta usually attaches correctly to the uterine wall, complications can occur. Here are a few potential issues:
- Placenta previa: The placenta grows in the lower part of the womb, covering all or part of the cervix.
- Placental abruption: The placenta detaches from the uterine wall.
- Placenta accreta: The placenta embeds too deeply into the uterine wall.
- Calcified placenta: Small calcium deposits develop on the placenta.
- Anterior placenta: This is a variation in placental placement and usually isn’t problematic.
- Placental insufficiency: The placenta fails to provide enough oxygen and nutrients to the fetus.
Your healthcare provider will regularly check the health and position of your placenta throughout your pregnancy, alerting you to any potential concerns so you can discuss the best treatment options together.
What is an amniotic sac?
The amniotic sac is a thin, transparent membrane that houses the fetus and is part of the placenta. It consists of two membranes: the inner amnion, which contains the amniotic fluid and fetus, and the outer chorion, which encases the amnion. This sac serves to protect the baby and regulate temperature. Initially, the amniotic fluid is primarily water from the mother, but as the baby grows, it contains fluid produced by the fetus itself (yes, it’s true—it’s made up of the baby’s urine!).
What are the benefits of eating my placenta?
Some women choose to eat their placenta after childbirth, believing there are health benefits, such as preventing postpartum depression and boosting energy and milk supply. Although these claims lack scientific backing, some women find the practice beneficial. You can consume your placenta in various ways—cooked, raw, in pill form, or blended into a smoothie.
For more insights on pregnancy and related topics, check out our other blog post, which delves into additional aspects of home insemination, or visit Healthline for excellent resources on pregnancy.
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In summary, the placenta is a critical organ that provides essential support to your developing baby throughout pregnancy. Understanding its development and functions can help you navigate your journey into motherhood with greater confidence.
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