ILOs

• Describe the gross anatomy of the human placenta at term
• Describe the micro-structural aspects of a healthy placenta and the major changes observed over gestation
• Discuss the functioning of a normal placenta in a healthy pregnancy
• Explain the possible effects of placental dysfunction on health, and summarise the Barker Hypothesis
• Identify the screening and diagnostic tests used in pregnancy, and outline why and when they would be useful

Gross Anatomy of the Human Placenta at Term

• What is the first thing the midwife will check on the placenta after delivery?
• What is the normal range of weight for a placenta?
• What is the chorionic plate of the placenta?
• Where does the umbilical chord insert into the placenta
• What are the vessels in the umbilical chord and what do they transport?
• What is the role of Wharton's Jelly?
• What are the foetal membranes and why are they significant?
• What is the basal plate of the placenta?
• What are the cotyledons of the placenta?

Placental Development over Gestation