MCAT Question A Day - 1/26/14 - Answer!

Which of the following functions is not carried out by the placenta?

A. Production of hormones that maintain the uterus

B. The site at which fertilization takes place

C. The site at which maternal and fetal circulation exchange materials

D. The site at which the umbilical cord connects

The correct answer is (B). Fertilization usually occurs in the fallopian tubes. Even though the corpus luteum maintains the uterus early in pregnancy, the placenta takes over completely by the end of the first trimester. Therefore, choice (A) is not the incorrect statement.

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