Placenta and amniotic fluid

The placenta is significant for the transfer of molecules from the mother's blood to the embryo's blood stream. This is imperative as the embryo cannot respire, digest or excrete.

The placenta is spread out over a large surface area so that the diffusion of molecules occurs quickly.

Molecules transferred include:

1. Oxygen
2. Carbon dioxide
3. Glucose
4. Urea
5. ANTIBODIES [provides specific immunity against various diseases].

The amniotic fluid provides support, protection and allows movement. It also regulates body temperature and absorbs pressure to the uterus hence protecting the embryo.

Coagulation is the mix of different blood types. Although the placenta must be situated close to the embryo to ensure diffusion occurs quickly, it is important that the mother's blood and embryo's blood do not mix.