Certificate In Psychology (CPSY) Practice Exam

What is true concerning the placenta?

1. It is solely responsible for the baby’s circulation.

2. It acts as a barrier to all harmful substances.

3. It allows nutrient and gas exchange between mother and fetus.

4. It generates hormones needed for maternal mood regulation.

The correct answer is: It allows nutrient and gas exchange between mother and fetus.

The placenta plays a vital role in fetal development, primarily by allowing nutrient and gas exchange between the mother and fetus. This organ forms during pregnancy and facilitates the transfer of oxygen, carbon dioxide, and essential nutrients from the mother’s bloodstream to the developing fetus. Additionally, it helps eliminate waste products from the fetal circulation, which is crucial for maintaining a healthy environment for the growing baby. While the placenta does contribute to hormone production and plays a role in maternal-fetal circulation, it is not solely responsible for the baby’s circulation nor does it act as a complete barrier to all harmful substances. Certain substances can still pass through the placenta, which makes the statement about it acting as a barrier misleading. Additionally, the hormones produced by the placenta are essential for various physiological processes, but the primary role of the placenta in the context of the choices provided is indeed its function in nutrient and gas exchange.