Which organ nourishes the developing fetus in the uterus?

• A. The organ that nourishes the developing fetus in the uterus during pregnancy
• B. A muscle that aids in birth
• C. The outermost protective layer of the uterus
• D. The gland controlling pregnancy hormones

Answer: (A)

Nourishing the developing fetus is the placenta, an organ that forms during pregnancy and attaches to the wall of the uterus. It connects to the fetus through the umbilical cord and allows nutrients and oxygen from the mother’s blood to pass to the fetus while carrying away waste. It also acts as an endocrine tissue, producing hormones that help sustain the pregnancy. The uterus, a muscular organ, supports and contracts during birth but does not provide nourishment. The outer protective layer of the uterus is the perimetrium, not involved in nourishing. The gland that controls pregnancy hormones refers to endocrine glands such as the pituitary, whereas the placenta directly supplies nutrients and oxygen to the fetus and supports the pregnancy through its hormonal activity.