Question

Which one of the following is not the function of placenta? It

• A. Facilitates supply of oxygen and nutrients to embryo.
• B. Secretes estrogen.
• C. Facilitates removal of carbon dioxide and waste material from embryo.
• D. Secretes oxytocin during parturition.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

The placenta is a vital organ that forms in the uterus during pregnancy and performs several critical functions to support the developing fetus. Let us examine each of the given options to identify which function is not associated with the placenta:

1. Facilitates supply of oxygen and nutrients to embryo: The placenta is responsible for transferring oxygen and nutrients from the mother's blood to the embryo. This function is crucial for fetal development.
2. Secretes estrogen: The placenta secretes several hormones, including estrogen, which are essential for maintaining pregnancy and supporting the growth and development of the fetus.
3. Facilitates removal of carbon dioxide and waste material from embryo: The placenta also plays a critical role in the removal of waste products and carbon dioxide from the embryo, transporting these back into the mother's blood for elimination.
4. Secretes oxytocin during parturition: Oxytocin is a hormone that plays a key role in childbirth (parturition) by stimulating uterine contractions. However, oxytocin is not secreted by the placenta; it is primarily produced by the hypothalamus and released by the posterior pituitary gland. Therefore, this is not a function of the placenta.

Conclusion: The correct answer is that the placenta does not secrete oxytocin during parturition. This hormone is involved in childbirth but is not produced by the placenta.