North American Registry of Midwives (NARM) Practice Exam

What role does the placenta play during pregnancy?

1. It acts as a barrier to toxins

2. It provides oxygen and nutrients to the fetus

3. It produces hormones exclusively

4. It prevents fetal movement

The correct answer is: It provides oxygen and nutrients to the fetus

The placenta serves a crucial role during pregnancy by providing oxygen and nutrients to the developing fetus. It is an organ that connects the mother’s bloodstream to that of the fetus, facilitating the transfer of essential substances. Oxygen from the mother’s blood diffuses into the fetal blood supply, while carbon dioxide and other waste products from the fetus are passed back to the mother for elimination. This exchange is vital for the growth and development of the fetus, ensuring that it receives everything it needs to thrive while in utero. Furthermore, while the placenta does indeed produce hormones that support pregnancy, it does not solely produce hormones, nor does it act exclusively as a barrier to toxins. It is important to note that some substances can cross the placental barrier, which emphasizes that while it does provide some level of protection, it is not an impermeable barrier against all toxins. Additionally, the placenta does not prevent fetal movement; rather, fetal movement is a normal aspect of development within the amniotic fluid and is affected by factors such as gestational age and available space as the fetus grows.