: The term placenta means flat cake in Latin. The placenta is defined as a fusion of the fetal membranes to the uterine wall. Gross and microscopic examination of placenta is generally not indicated in uneventful pregnancies and deliveries. According to College of American Pathologists criteria, the gross and microscopic examination of placenta is indicated in certain maternal, fetal and placental conditions which may govern the outcome of the next pregnancy and diagnosis of which may prevent fetal loss and maternal complications in next pregnancy . Normally placenta should consist of single round to ovoid disc with no accessory lobes, with a shiny surface and membranes should insert at the margin of the disc. Umbilical cord should contain two arteries and one vein