What is the primary function of the placenta?

The primary function of the placenta is to provide oxygen and nutrients to the fetus. This organ acts as an interface between the mother and fetus, allowing for the exchange of gases, nutrients, and waste products. Oxygen from the mother's blood is delivered to the fetus through the placenta, while carbon dioxide and metabolic waste are transferred from the fetus back to the mother's circulation for disposal. This vital role is essential for the growth and development of the fetus throughout pregnancy.

While supporting maternal hormonal changes and protecting the fetus are important functions of the placenta, they are secondary to its primary role in nutrient and oxygen supply. The placenta does assist in producing hormones that help maintain pregnancy, such as human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and progesterone, and it provides a degree of immunological protection. However, these functions do not surpass the necessity of nutrient and gas exchange for fetal development. Facilitating fetal movement is not a function of the placenta; movement is influenced by fetal activity within the amniotic fluid and not directly by placental function.