Living Environment Regents Practice Test

What is the primary function of the placenta during pregnancy?

1. To produce hormones only.

2. To filter toxins from the fetus's blood.

3. To transfer nutrients from the mother to the fetus.

4. To serve as a barrier against all diseases.

The correct answer is: To transfer nutrients from the mother to the fetus.

The primary function of the placenta during pregnancy is to transfer nutrients from the mother to the fetus. The placenta acts as a vital organ that facilitates the exchange of essential substances, such as oxygen and nutrients, while also removing waste products from the fetal blood. In this process, the mother's bloodstream delivers these important elements to the placenta, which then allows them to pass through the placental barrier into the fetal circulation. This exchange is crucial for fetal development and growth, ensuring that the fetus receives the necessary support for its physiological needs throughout the gestation period. While the placenta does have roles in hormone production and providing some protective functions against certain pathogens, its primary role remains focused on the nutrient and gas exchange critical for the health and development of the fetus. This function highlights the placenta’s importance as a lifeline that connects the mother and child during pregnancy.