01/06/2026
💬 𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐝 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐖𝐞𝐞𝐤: 𝐏𝐥𝐚𝐜𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐡
The placenta is your baby’s lifeline. 🤍
This temporary organ develops during pregnancy, connecting you and your baby via the umbilical cord.
Think of it as the roots of a tree. 🌱 It anchors your baby, provides oxygen and nutrients, removes waste, and helps protect against infections.
💡 Good to know: The placenta actually belongs to your baby. During pregnancy, it takes over the roles of several vital organs, supporting your baby’s lungs, kidneys, liver, and more.
🔬 Why is placental health important?
A healthy placenta is essential for your baby’s development. If it doesn’t function properly because it’s too small, too large, or not working efficiently, it can increase the risk of complications, including growth restriction, preterm birth, or stillbirth.
Globally, around 2 million stillbirths occur each year, and placental conditions play a significant role in this statistic. It’s estimated that at least 17% of stillbirths are linked to abnormally small placentas.
💡 Important to know:
Changes in the placenta can happen before changes in your baby’s growth are visible, making it an early warning sign.
👩⚕️ How can placenta measurement help?
Placental health isn’t routinely examined in detail. Standard ultrasounds usually examine location rather than size or function.
A simple method called Estimated Placental Volume (EPV) can estimate placental size. It’s quick and non-invasive, and it may help identify babies who need closer monitoring – especially toward the end of pregnancy, when your baby’s needs are greatest.
🚗 You can think of it as driving without a gas gauge: without monitoring the placenta, problems may develop without clear warning signs.
💜 June 1 is Placenta Health Awareness Day.
The date (6/1) reflects the ideal fetal-placental weight ratio of 6:1 at term, which is a powerful reminder of how closely linked your baby’s health is to the placenta. ✨
To learn more, follow our partner Measure the Placenta.