Which of the following is not the function of a placenta?

Options

A. Supply nutrients to the fetus
B. removal of excretory products from the fetus
C. supply of carbon dioxide to the fetus
D. supply of oxygen to the fetus

Answer

To determine which of the following is not a function of the placenta, we first need to understand the primary functions of the placenta in pregnancy. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:

### Step 1: Identify the Functions of the Placenta
The placenta serves several critical functions during pregnancy, including:
1. **Nutrient Transfer**: It facilitates the transfer of nutrients from the mother to the fetus.
2. **Gas Exchange**: The placenta allows for the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide between maternal and fetal blood.
3. **Waste Removal**: It helps in the removal of waste products from the fetal blood to the maternal circulation.
4. **Hormone Production**: The placenta produces hormones that are essential for maintaining pregnancy, such as human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and progesterone.

### Step 2: Analyze the Options
Now, we need to analyze the options provided in the question (though they are not listed here, we will assume common functions and non-functions of the placenta).

### Step 3: Identify the Incorrect Function
Among the functions listed above, we must identify which one does not belong to the placenta's role. For example, if one of the options is related to digestion or muscle contraction, these would not be functions of the placenta.

### Step 4: Conclusion
Once we identify the option that does not relate to the placenta's functions, we can conclude that this is the correct answer to the question.

### Final Answer
The option that is not a function of the placenta is the one that does not relate to nutrient transfer, gas exchange, waste removal, or hormone production.

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