What is placenta? Give information about hormones produced by the placenta.

(N/A) After implantation,finger-like projections appear on the trophoblast called chorionic villi,which are surrounded by the uterine tissue and maternal blood.
The chorionic villi and uterine tissue become interdigitated with each other and jointly form a structural and functional unit between the developing embryo (foetus) and the maternal body,called the placenta.
Functions of the placenta:
$1$. The placenta facilitates the supply of oxygen and nutrients to the embryo.
$2$. It also facilitates the removal of carbon dioxide and excretory waste materials produced by the embryo.
$3$. The placenta is connected to the embryo through an umbilical cord,which helps in the transport of substances to and from the embryo.
Hormones produced by the placenta:
The placenta also acts as an endocrine tissue and produces several hormones:
$(i)$ Human chorionic gonadotropin $(hCG)$
$(ii)$ Human placental lactogen $(hPL)$
$(iii)$ Estrogens
$(iv)$ Progestogens
Additionally:
$(v)$ In the later phase of pregnancy,a hormone called relaxin is also secreted by the ovary.
$(vi)$ $hCG$,$hPL$,and relaxin are produced in women only during pregnancy.
$(vii)$ During pregnancy,the levels of other hormones like estrogens,progestogens,cortisol,prolactin,thyroxine,etc.,are increased in the maternal blood.
These hormones are essential for supporting fetal growth,metabolic changes in the mother,and the maintenance of pregnancy.