As an expectant mother, there are many things that you may be curious about, and one of these things may be when your baby develops placenta. The placenta is a vital organ that develops during pregnancy and provides oxygen and nutrients to your growing baby. In this article, we will explore when your baby develops placenta and what you can expect during this process.
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What is Placenta?
The placenta is a temporary organ that develops in the uterus during pregnancy. It is attached to the lining of the uterus and connects to the baby via the umbilical cord. The placenta is responsible for providing oxygen and nutrients to the growing baby, as well as removing waste products from the baby’s blood.
When Does Baby Develop Placenta?
Source: bing.comThe placenta begins to develop immediately after fertilization, but it is not fully formed until around 12 weeks of pregnancy. At around five weeks of pregnancy, the placenta will begin to form from the outer layer of cells of the embryo. By eight weeks of pregnancy, the placenta will be fully formed, and it will continue to grow throughout the rest of the pregnancy.
What Does Placenta Look Like?
The placenta is a flat, circular organ that is approximately 7 inches in diameter and 1 inch thick. It has a reddish-blue color and is covered in blood vessels. The umbilical cord connects to the placenta, and it is through this cord that nutrients and oxygen are delivered to the baby.
How Does Placenta Affect Pregnancy?
The placenta plays a crucial role in pregnancy as it is responsible for providing the baby with oxygen and nutrients. It also helps to remove waste products from the baby’s blood. If the placenta is not functioning correctly, it can cause complications during pregnancy, such as pre-eclampsia or intrauterine growth restriction.
When is Placenta Fully Developed?
The placenta is fully developed by around 12 weeks of pregnancy. After this point, the placenta will continue to grow to meet the needs of the growing baby. At around 20 weeks of pregnancy, the placenta will be approximately the size of a dinner plate.
Conclusion
The placenta is a vital organ that develops during pregnancy and provides oxygen and nutrients to the growing baby. It begins to develop immediately after fertilization and is fully formed by around 12 weeks of pregnancy. If you have any concerns about your placenta or your pregnancy, it is essential to speak to your healthcare provider. They will be able to provide you with the information and support that you need to ensure a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can the placenta move during pregnancy?
A: Yes, the placenta can move during pregnancy. This is known as placenta previa and can cause complications during delivery.
Q: Can the placenta separate from the uterine wall during pregnancy?
A: Yes, this is known as placental abruption and can cause complications during pregnancy.
Q: Can the placenta be donated?
A: Yes, the placenta can be donated to help others who need it for medical research or treatment.
Q: Can smoking during pregnancy affect the placenta?
A: Yes, smoking during pregnancy can affect the function of the placenta, leading to complications such as pre-eclampsia and intrauterine growth restriction.
Q: Can the placenta be delivered before the baby?
A: No, the placenta is delivered after the baby during the third stage of labor.