NEETZoologyHuman Reproduction
What is the role of increased levels of hormones in pregnancy?
Options
- ATo support 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
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 blood. Increased production of these hormones is essential for supporting the fetal growth, metabolic changes in the mother and maintenance of pregnancy .