The placenta is a temporary organ that develops during pregnancy, acting as the life support system for the developing fetus. It facilitates the transfer of oxygen and nutrients from the mother’s bloodstream while also removing waste products. Once delivered, typically a few minutes after the baby is born, it is commonly referred to as the “afterbirth.”
The General Appearance of the Delivered Organ
The mature placenta generally has a discoid or pancake-like shape. At full term, the organ typically weighs around 500 to 600 grams (about one to one and a half pounds). It measures approximately 15 to 22 centimeters in diameter and is thickest at its center.
The overall appearance is meaty and highly vascular, often described as having a deep reddish-blue color. Its texture is sometimes compared to a wet sponge or gel-like tissue due to the rich concentration of blood vessels. The size and structure of the placenta are important, as they reflect the health and development of the pregnancy.
Examining the Fetal and Maternal Sides
The placenta has two distinct surfaces, each reflecting its specific role. The side that faced the baby, known as the fetal surface or chorionic plate, is smooth and glistening. This shiny appearance is due to the transparent amnion membrane covering the surface.
The umbilical cord inserts at the center of the fetal surface, and large, branching blood vessels radiate outward across the membrane. The opposite side, the maternal surface or basal plate, is rough, bumpy, and dark red or maroon. This color is derived from the decidual tissue that separated from the uterine wall upon delivery.
The maternal side is characterized by being divided into 15 to 20 distinct lobes called cotyledons. These sections appear separated by grooves. This lobulated, uneven texture marks where the organ was directly attached to the inner lining of the uterus during pregnancy.
Immediate Procedures After Delivery
After delivery, the placenta undergoes an immediate medical inspection by clinicians. The primary reason for this examination is to ensure the organ is complete and intact. The provider checks the maternal surface to confirm all cotyledons are present and that no fragments have been left behind in the uterus.
Retained placental tissue is a concern because it can prevent the uterus from contracting fully, increasing the risk of postpartum hemorrhage and infection. The membranes are also checked for completeness, as torn vessels near the edges may suggest a retained accessory lobe. Following this inspection, the placenta is typically sent for hospital disposal or pathology review. Some parents choose alternative options, such as encapsulation or saving it for cultural rituals, which should be communicated to the medical team.