The hormone that directly supports pregnancy, as per the provided reference, is human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG).
Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG) and Pregnancy
Key Role of hCG
- Production Location: hCG is uniquely produced during pregnancy, primarily by the placenta. This makes it a very specific pregnancy indicator.
- Pregnancy Marker: The presence of hCG in blood and urine is a key marker of pregnancy, and it's the hormone detected by home pregnancy tests.
- Support of Corpus Luteum: In the early stages of pregnancy, hCG plays a vital role in maintaining the corpus luteum, which is essential for the continued production of progesterone.
- Progesterone's Role: Progesterone is essential for maintaining the uterine lining, thus supporting the pregnancy.
Why hCG is Crucial
The production of hCG and its interaction with other hormones are essential for a successful pregnancy. Here's a breakdown:
| Hormone | Source | Role in Pregnancy |
|---|---|---|
| Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG) | Placenta | Maintains the corpus luteum, which continues to produce progesterone, essential for sustaining the uterine lining |
| Progesterone | Corpus Luteum (early), Placenta (later) | Maintains uterine lining, prevents uterine contractions |
Other Hormones in Pregnancy
While other hormones also play roles in pregnancy, hCG is unique in its primary role of establishing and maintaining the pregnancy in its initial stages by supporting progesterone production.
In conclusion, while multiple hormones are essential in pregnancy, human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), produced by the placenta, is the primary hormone that directly supports pregnancy by maintaining the corpus luteum and ensuring adequate progesterone production during early pregnancy.
