5 Difference between Amnion and Chorion (With Table)
Pregnancy results in a memorable and life-changing experience among couples. The fetus undergoes several stages before becoming a human being.
Many people are familiar with fetuses and embryos when it comes to pregnancy. These two biological names are easier to distinguish based on the weeks of development.
Chorion and amnion are rare terms that people talk about when it comes to pregnancy. But these biological terms are vital during the pregnancy period.
So, what is the difference between amnion and chorion? Amnion is located in the interior part of the outer mesoderm and inner part of the ectoderm. Chorion is situated in the external part of the embryo.
This article provides further differences between amnion and chorion in a tabular form. Take the time to read through for more insights into amnion and chorion separation.
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Comparison Table (Amnion vs Chorion)
| Basic Terms | Amnion | Chorion |
| Definition | It is the extra layer that protects the embryo and delivers nutrients. | It is a supportive layer to the amnion to facilitate ultimate care during fetus development. |
| Organism | All mammals and animal offspring. Except in fishes and amphibians. | Embryos of humans, animals, and reptiles. |
| Significance |
| Provide extra protection to the embryo. |
| Composition | Yolk, sac, and allantois | Tail-like structures (Villi). |
| Effectiveness | During delivery | When providing food to the baby from the mother during the pregnancy period. |
What Is Amnion?
Amnion is formed from the tissues of the embryo. Keep in mind that amnion is not part of the embryo. The yolk, sac, and allantois are crucial layers that protect the embryo during pregnancy.
Amnion also enhances the delivery of nutrients to the baby from the mother and the removal of waste products. Besides that, it helps in the production of amniotic fluid in the sac to absorb shock.
Amnion breakage is literary known as breaking water in pregnant women. It is an indicator that the baby is about to come out of the womb.
The embryo and amnion have closer physical contact. Amnion increases in volume as the embryo grows bigger.
What Is Chorion?
It is among the vital membranes that form the amniotic sac. The chorion has tail-like structures (chorion villi) for providing extra protection to the embryo.
Besides that, these chorion villi facilitate the exchange of nutrients between the mother and child during the pregnancy period.
Chorion villi give maximum connection between the unborn baby and the mother. It also enhances the exchange of maternal blood and the removal of waste products.
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Main Difference between Amnion and Chorion
In Conclusion
All expectant mothers undergo the nerve-wracking experiences. But these pregnancy experiences are worth the pain after the delivery of a healthy baby.
The embryo grows in the womb for a duration of nine months. A fully grown embryo usually displays physical features similar to those of adults.
You’ll realize that fetus and embryo are common terms used throughout the pregnancy period. Nobody talks about chorion and amnion except the physicians when undertaking ultrasound.
The main difference between chorion and amnion depends on their location and purpose during the pregnancy period. But both play a vital role during embryo development and delivery period.
More Sources and References
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chorion
- https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/neuroscience/chorion
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4684856/
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