What essential role does the placenta play during pregnancy?

The placenta plays a critical role in the development of the fetus, primarily serving as the organ responsible for the transfer of oxygen and nutrients from the mother to the fetus. This function is vital because the fetus relies entirely on the placenta for the oxygen and essential substances it needs for growth and development throughout gestation. The placenta also facilitates the removal of carbon dioxide and other waste products from the fetal blood, ensuring a stable environment for the developing fetus.

While the placenta does produce hormones, it is not limited to this function alone. Similarly, although it provides some level of immune protection through limited antibody transfer, this is not its primary role. Additionally, while the placenta does help in the buffering of some toxins, its most crucial function remains the transfer of oxygen and nutrients. Thus, the ability of the placenta to facilitate these exchanges effectively underscores its essential role during pregnancy.