The Effect of Placental Hormones on Maternal Metabolism and Fetal Growth

Abstract

Placenta controls intrauterine development by supplying oxygen and nutrients, and regulating the bioavailability of specific hormones involved in fetal growth and development. Placental hormones and maternal pituitary gland provide the metabolic adaptation during pregnancy. The metabolic adaptations of pregnancy are designed to support the demands of fetal and neonatal development and growth. Due to the fact that placenta has a both way action on fetus and mother, it has a very complicated structure. In this review, the effects of placental hormones on fetal development and maternal metabolism during pregnancy are discussed.