Placenta - GCSE Biology Definition
Reviewed by: Lára Marie McIvor
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The placenta is an organ that develops in the uterus during pregnancy and connects the developing baby to the mother’s blood supply via the umbilical cord. It allows the exchange of substances between mother and baby: providing the baby with oxygen and nutrients and removing waste products like carbon dioxide. The placenta also produces hormones that help maintain pregnancy. After birth, the placenta is delivered as part of the afterbirth. In GCSE Biology, understanding the placenta is important for learning how a baby receives everything it needs to grow and develop inside the womb.
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