In addition to providing nourishment, what is another function of the placenta?

The placenta plays a critical role in providing nourishment to the developing fetus, but one of its essential functions is also to maintain the endometrium. This is important because the endometrium, the inner lining of the uterus, needs to be preserved throughout the pregnancy to support the growing fetus. The placenta does this by secreting hormones such as human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and progesterone, which help maintain the endometrial lining, ensuring that it remains thick and supportive for the developing embryo.

By maintaining the endometrium, the placenta ensures a stable environment for the fetus, facilitating continued growth and development. This connection between the placenta and the endometrium is vital for the overall health of the pregnancy, enabling both nutrient transfer and waste elimination, though the direct removal of waste is primarily managed by the fetal circulatory system in conjunction with the maternal system.