Function of placenta

Question 1

Why is oxygen drawn from maternal haemoglobin to foetal haemoglobin

Answer 1

Foetal haemoglobin has a higher affinity for oxygen

Question 2

other than oxygen what substances are exchanged across the placenta to maintain acid base balance (4)

Answer 2

carbon dioxide
hydrogen ions
bicarbonate
lactic acid

Question 3

What is the purpose of increased hCG in early pregnancy

Answer 3

to maintain the corpus luteum until placenta takes over

Question 4

HCG levels begin to fall around

Answer 4

10 weeks

Question 5

HCG can caused what symptoms in pregnancy

Answer 5

nausea and vomiting

Question 6

After 5 weeks the placenta takes over production of what hormone from the corpus luteum

Answer 6

progesterone

Question 7

Affects of increased oestrogen levels during pregnancy

Answer 7

softens tissues
expansion of uterus and pelvic ligaments
softens cervix

Question 8

Affects of increased progesterone levels during pregnancy

Answer 8

maintains pregnancy
relaxation of uterine muscles
maintains endometrium