Question

Which one of the following hormones is secreted by the human placenta that helps in the maintenance of pregnancy?

Options

• Relaxin

• Human Chorionic Gonadotropin

• Oxytocin

• Human Placental Lactogen

Answer 1

Human Chorionic Gonadotropin

Explanation:

The placenta secretes human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) in the early stages of pregnancy. It aids the corpus luteum, which generates the progesterone required to preserve the lining of the uterus and keep the pregnancy going. In the absence of hCG, the corpus luteum would retreat, increasing the chance of miscarriage.