How the Placenta Works: Chorionic Villi, Umbilical Cord, and Maternal Exchange

📚 Key Concepts Covered Chorionic Villi: The finger-like projections from the trophoblast that interdigitate with the maternal uterine tissue. The Placental Barrier: How the selective permeability allows nutrients, antibodies (IgG), and oxygen to pass while blocking harmful pathogens. Hormonal Control: Why the placenta takes over hormone production to maintain pregnancy and prepare the body for lactation.