The Placenta: and its role on pregnancy symptoms

Pregnancy is an extraordinary journey filled with joy, anticipation, and - for many women - a fair share of discomfort. From morning sickness to fatigue and hormonal fluctuations, pregnancy symptoms can sometimes take a toll on expectant mothers. However, nature has a unique way of balancing things out.

Enter the placenta—the incredible organ that not only nourishes the developing baby but also plays a crucial role in mitigating pregnancy symptoms.

In this blog post, we will explore how the placenta takes over the task of nourishing the baby and the subsequent relief it can bring to expectant mothers.

The Placenta: A Life-Sustaining Connection

The placenta is a temporary organ that develops during pregnancy and acts as a lifeline between the mother and her growing baby. It forms shortly after conception and attaches to the uterine wall, facilitating the exchange of nutrients, oxygen, and waste products between the mother's bloodstream and the baby's developing body.

Many early pregnancy symptoms, such as nausea, fatigue, and breast tenderness, are linked to the hormonal changes initiated by the placenta. As the placenta takes over hormone production from the corpus luteum, some of these symptoms may subside, while others may persist or evolve.

The placenta's hormone production is crucial for maintaining the pregnancy and supporting fetal development. However, the levels of these hormones can also contribute to common pregnancy symptoms and discomforts.

Taking Over Nourishment

During early pregnancy, the mother's body provides vital nutrients to support the baby's growth and development. However, as the placenta develops, it gradually takes over the responsibility of nourishing the baby. The placenta acts as a unique interface, allowing the transfer of oxygen and nutrients from the mother's bloodstream to the developing fetus, while also removing waste products. This process ensures that the baby receives the essential sustenance needed for its growth, while relieving the mother's body from some of the burden.

Reducing Pregnancy Symptoms

As the placenta assumes the role of supplying nutrients to the baby, it indirectly affects the mother's experience by reducing certain pregnancy symptoms. Here are some ways in which the placenta contributes to alleviating discomfort during pregnancy:

Hormonal Regulation: The placenta produces hormones that help regulate the mother's hormonal balance during pregnancy. These hormones, including estrogen and progesterone, can help stabilise mood swings, alleviate anxiety, and reduce the intensity of certain pregnancy symptoms such as nausea and morning sickness.

Improved Energy Levels: By ensuring a consistent supply of nutrients, the placenta supports the mother's energy levels, mitigating the fatigue often experienced during pregnancy. This newfound energy can enable expectant mothers to engage in daily activities with more vitality and enthusiasm.

Stabilising Blood Sugar: The placenta plays a vital role in regulating the mother's blood sugar levels. By efficiently transferring nutrients to the baby, it helps maintain stable glucose levels in the mother's bloodstream. This stability can reduce the occurrence of gestational diabetes, a condition that affects blood sugar control during pregnancy and can lead to various complications.

Enhanced Nutrient Absorption: As the placenta matures, it becomes more adept at absorbing and utilising nutrients from the mother's bloodstream. This increased efficiency ensures that the developing baby receives an optimal supply of essential vitamins, minerals, and other vital nutrients. Consequently, the mother's body experiences a reduction in symptoms associated with nutritional deficiencies, such as muscle cramps or pica cravings.

How We Can Support You

At Beyond the Bump, we believe knowledge is power—especially in pregnancy. If understanding your placenta and how it affects your symptoms has left you wanting more clarity and confidence in your pregnancy journey, we’re here to help.

Our Birth & Baby Academy is a complete antenatal course designed to support every birth route. It includes in-depth education on your body, your baby, and your options—empowering you to make informed decisions and feel calm, confident, and in control.

If you're not quite ready to dive into a full course, download our free guide, "Taking Control of Your Birth"—it's a brilliant starting point for understanding your rights, options, and voice during birth.

You don’t have to navigate this alone. Whether you’re looking for online support or in-person classes in our calming Warwickshire hub, you’ll always be welcomed by Vicky & Melissa, who are here to support you every step of the way.