Which term refers to the organ that provides nutrients and oxygen to the fetus?

• A. Umbilical Cord
• B. Amniotic Sac
• C. Amniotic Fluid
• D. Placenta

Answer: (D)

The placenta serves as the exchange organ between mother and fetus, supplying nutrients and oxygen to the fetal bloodstream while removing waste. It forms a disk-like structure attached to the uterine wall and is connected to the fetus by the umbilical cord. Blood from the mother flows into the placental intervillous spaces, where oxygen and nutrients diffuse into the fetal villous capillaries, and waste products move from fetal blood into maternal blood. The two circulations stay separate, with exchange occurring across the placental barrier. The placenta also produces hormones to sustain pregnancy. The umbilical cord simply carries blood between the fetus and the placenta, while the amniotic sac and fluid cushion and protect the fetus rather than provide nutrients or oxygen.