The placenta is fully formed around 12-16 weeks of gestation.
After a woman’s pregnancy, the placenta usually develops into a certain shape initially around 12 weeks of gestation and is fully formed by around 16 weeks. The full-term placenta is round or oval in shape, weighing about 450-650g, thick in the center and thin at the edges. The placenta is the organ of material exchange between the mother and the fetus.
The functions of the placenta are ① gas exchange, the most important material to maintain the life of the fetus oxygen; ② supply of nutrients to ensure the growth and development of the fetus needs; ③ excretion of wastes, can be discharged from the fetus metabolism; ④ defense function, to prevent the invasion of bacteria and pathogens in general; ⑤ synthesis function, the synthesis of hormones and enzymes, and so on.
During pregnancy, regular prenatal checkups are conducted to observe the position, thickness and maturity of the placenta through ultrasound, thus reflecting the function of the placenta. If you feel uncomfortable or have any abnormalities during pregnancy, you should consult a doctor in time for examination and treatment under the guidance of a professional doctor.