Fetal Membranes and Placenta

These flashcards cover key concepts regarding fetal membranes and placenta anatomy, function, and implications in pregnancy.

What are the four main types of fetal membranes?

Chorion, Amnion, Yolk Sac, Allantois.

What is the purpose of the Chorion?

Protection, Nutrition, Respiration, Excretion, Hormone production.

What characterizes the trophoblast by the beginning of the second month?

It has numerous secondary and tertiary villi that give it a radial appearance.

What structures form the barrier in the placenta?

Syncytium, Cytotrophoblast, Connective tissue, Endothelium.

What are the two components of the placenta by the beginning of the fourth month?

Fetal portion and Maternal portion.

What is the function of the amniotic fluid?

Provides cushioning, allows for growth, and prevents adhesion.

What is the composition of the umbilical cord?

It contains two umbilical arteries and one umbilical vein.

What are decidual septa in the placenta?

Structures that partially separate the cotyledons in the placenta.

What are the functions of the placenta?

Exchange of metabolic and gaseous products, transmission of maternal antibodies, production of hormones.

What is the significance of the chorion frondosum?

It is the bushy or villous chorion part of the placenta that interfaces with the maternal decidua.

What are dizygotic twins?

Twins that result from two separate fertilized eggs.

In the context of fetal membranes, what does 'amniochorionic membrane' refer to?

The membrane formed from the fusion of the amnion and chorion.

What happens during stage 1 of parturition?

Effacement and dilatation of the cervix.

What is the significance of the fetal capillaries in the placenta?

They are where the exchange of gases and nutrients occurs.

What are some harmful substances that can be transferred through the placenta?

Drugs (like alcohol), poisons, bacteria, and certain viruses.