The placenta is the interface between mother and fetus. Functions of the placenta include gas exchange, metabolic transfer, hormone secretion, and fetal protection. Nutrient and drug transfer across the placenta are by passive diffusion, facilitated diffusion, active transport, and pinocytosis.

How are materials transported from the placenta to the fetus?

Protein is transported to the fetus as amino acids by specific amino acid transporter proteins. Placental lipid transport to the fetus involves direct transporter mediated transfer of certain fatty acids as well as lipid uptake from lipoproteins, metabolic alteration in the placenta, and release into the fetal plasma.

Do waste products pass through the placenta?

Waste products and carbon dioxide from the baby are sent back through the umbilical cord blood vessels and placenta to the mother's circulation to be eliminated.