What hormones are unique to pregnancy?
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 1
The correct answer is Option (1) - hCG, hPL, relaxin
These hormones are unique to pregnancy and play vital roles in supporting it:
hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin): Produced by the placenta.It maintains the corpus luteum in early pregnancy.Used in pregnancy tests.
hPL (human placental lactogen): Also Produced by the placenta. It supports fetal growth and prepares the mother's body for lactation.
Relaxin: Produced by the ovary and placenta. It relaxes pelvic ligaments and softens the cervix for childbirth.
The other options:
- Estrogen, progesterone: Important in pregnancy but not unique to it — they’re also part of the regular menstrual cycle.
- FSH, LH: Regulate ovulation and are actually suppressed during pregnancy.
- Insulin, glucagon: Metabolic hormones — nothing to do with pregnancy specifically.