NEETZoologyHuman Reproduction
What is the role of hormones in pregnancy?
Options
- ATo harm fetal growth and metabolic changes in the mother
- BTo produce several hormones like human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and human placental lactogen (hPL)
- CTo maintain pregnancy and support fetal growth
- DTo increase the levels of other hormones like estrogens and progestogens
Correct answer
C. To maintain pregnancy and support fetal growth
Step-by-step solution
Placenta also acts as an endocrine tissue and produces several hormones like human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), human placental lactogen (hPL), estrogens, progestogens, etc. In the later phase of pregnancy, a hormone called relaxin is also secreted by the ovary. Let us remember that hCG, hPL and relaxin are produced in women only during pregnancy. In addition, during pregnancy the levels of other hormones like estrogens, progestogens, cortisol, prolactin, thyroxine, etc., are increased severalfolds in the maternal