Placenta and Umbilical Cord

Script: Following implantation, cells on the periphery of the blastocyst give rise to part of a structure called the placenta, which serves as an interface between the maternal and embryonic circulatory systems.

The placenta delivers maternal oxygen, nutrients, hormones, and medications to the developing human; removes all waste products; and prevents maternal blood from mixing with the blood of the embryo and fetus.

The placenta also produces hormones and maintains embryonic and fetal body temperature slightly above that of the mother's.

The placenta communicates with the developing human through the vessels of the umbilical cord.