What is the structure that nourishes the fetus in utero?

What is the structure that nourishes the fetus in utero?

• A. Amniotic sac
• B. Placenta
• C. Umbilical cord
• D. Fetal membranes

Answer: (B)

The placenta is the primary structure responsible for nourishing the fetus during pregnancy. It serves as an interface between the mother's blood supply and the fetus, allowing for the exchange of nutrients, gases, and waste products. The placenta facilitates the transfer of essential nutrients such as glucose and amino acids to the developing fetus while also removing waste products like carbon dioxide. Additionally, the placenta is involved in hormone production, which is crucial for maintaining the pregnancy and supporting fetal development. It also acts as a barrier, protecting the fetus from certain infections and helping to regulate the maternal immune response. In contrast, the amniotic sac primarily serves to protect the fetus and maintain a stable environment by cushioning the developing baby and allowing for movement. The umbilical cord connects the fetus to the placenta and carries the nutrients and oxygen from the placenta to the fetus while transporting waste products back to the placenta for disposal. Finally, the fetal membranes include structures such as the chorion and amnion, which are primarily involved in protection and support rather than direct nourishment.

The placenta is the primary structure responsible for nourishing the fetus during pregnancy. It serves as an interface between the mother's blood supply and the fetus, allowing for the exchange of nutrients, gases, and waste products. The placenta facilitates the transfer of essential nutrients such as glucose and amino acids to the developing fetus while also removing waste products like carbon dioxide.

Additionally, the placenta is involved in hormone production, which is crucial for maintaining the pregnancy and supporting fetal development. It also acts as a barrier, protecting the fetus from certain infections and helping to regulate the maternal immune response.

In contrast, the amniotic sac primarily serves to protect the fetus and maintain a stable environment by cushioning the developing baby and allowing for movement. The umbilical cord connects the fetus to the placenta and carries the nutrients and oxygen from the placenta to the fetus while transporting waste products back to the placenta for disposal. Finally, the fetal membranes include structures such as the chorion and amnion, which are primarily involved in protection and support rather than direct nourishment.