The placenta
A)Is an organ of nourishment for the embryo/fetus
B)Functions as the lungs and kidneys of the fetus prior to birth
C)Allows for mixing of fetal and maternal blood
D)Both is an organ of nourishment for the embryo/fetus and functions as the lungs and kidneys of the fetus prior to birth are correct
E)All of the choices are correct

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The placenta serves as an organ of nourishment for the embryo/fetus, providing oxygen and nutrients from the maternal blood supply. In addition, it functions as the lungs and kidneys of the fetus prior to birth by removing carbon dioxide and waste products from the fetal blood and transferring them to the maternal blood supply. However, the placenta does not allow for mixing of fetal and maternal blood, as there are specialized structures that prevent direct contact between the two blood supplies.

The Placenta