Chorionic membrane

Chorionic Membrane

The chorionic membrane is a vital component of the placenta, which plays a crucial role in pregnancy. It is one of the membranes that exist during pregnancy between the mother and the fetus. The chorionic membrane, along with the amniotic membrane, forms the amniotic sac that surrounds and protects the fetus during gestation.

Structure[edit | edit source]

The chorionic membrane is composed of two layers: the outer layer, known as the chorion laeve, and the inner layer, known as the chorion frondosum. The chorion frondosum is the part of the chorionic membrane that develops into the placenta. The chorion laeve, on the other hand, does not contribute to the formation of the placenta and eventually fuses with the amniotic membrane.

Function[edit | edit source]

The primary function of the chorionic membrane is to facilitate the exchange of nutrients, gases, and waste products between the mother and the fetus. It does this through the chorionic villi, which are small, finger-like projections that extend into the mother's uterus. The chorionic villi are rich in blood vessels, allowing for efficient exchange of substances between the mother and the fetus.

The chorionic membrane also plays a role in protecting the fetus from the mother's immune system. It does this by producing human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), a hormone that suppresses the mother's immune response to the fetus.

Clinical Significance[edit | edit source]

Abnormalities in the chorionic membrane can lead to various pregnancy complications. For instance, a condition known as chorioamnionitis occurs when the chorionic and amniotic membranes become inflamed due to a bacterial infection. This can result in preterm labor and other serious complications for both the mother and the fetus.

Another condition, known as chorionic villus sampling (CVS), involves the removal of a small sample of the chorionic villi for genetic testing. This procedure can help detect genetic disorders in the fetus early in pregnancy.