Macroscopic examination of the placenta immediately following birth.

Macroscopic examination of the placenta can be performed readily by the healthcare providers present at the time of birth. It can be accomplished with a basic knowledge of placental pathology and a general understanding of the abnormalities and variations that affect the placenta. These observations can easily be entered into the medical record and may often provide information about intrauterine life that will help the future care of both mother and infant.