afterbirth

biology

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June 18, 2026

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The term "afterbirth" refers to the placenta and fetal membranes expelled after childbirth. The placenta is a vascular organ in most mammals that connects the developing fetus to the mother's uterus. It facilitates nutrient, oxygen, and waste exchange between the mother and fetus through the umbilical cord. After the baby is born, uterine contractions expel the placenta and membranes from the uterus, a process that typically takes about 15 minutes. The umbilical cord, which connects the fetus to the placenta, is clamped and cut after birth, with the remaining stump eventually falling off.1234

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mammal
Implantation, gestation, and birth
…the fetal membranes as “afterbirth” (a condition called deciduate) or may be resorbed by the female (nondeciduate). Placentas have been classified on the basis of the relationship between maternal and embryonic tissues. In the simplest nondeciduate placental arrangement, the chorionic villi are in contact with uterine epithelium (the inner…
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…the fetal membranes as “afterbirth” (a condition called deciduate) or may be resorbed by the female (nondeciduate). Placentas have been classified on the basis of the relationship between maternal and embryonic tissues. In the simplest nondeciduate placental arrangement, the chorionic villi are in contact with uterine epithelium (the inner…
Read More