Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG)

Definition

Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is a hormone produced by the placenta shortly after a fertilized egg attaches to the uterine lining. This hormone plays a crucial role in maintaining pregnancy, stimulating the production of progesterone, and signaling to the ovaries to continue producing hormones necessary for fetal development. Its presence is also what pregnancy tests detect, making it a key marker in early pregnancy.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. hCG is produced shortly after implantation of the fertilized egg and is essential for sustaining early pregnancy.
2. The hormone supports the corpus luteum, which is vital for progesterone production until the placenta takes over this role.
3. hCG levels can be measured in urine or blood, making it a reliable indicator for pregnancy tests.
4. In addition to its role in pregnancy, hCG is also used in certain medical treatments, including fertility therapies.
5. Abnormal levels of hCG can indicate potential complications during pregnancy, such as ectopic pregnancies or miscarriages.

Review Questions

• How does human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) contribute to the maintenance of early pregnancy?
  • Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is crucial for maintaining early pregnancy as it signals the ovaries to continue producing progesterone. Progesterone helps to thicken and sustain the uterine lining, providing a stable environment for the developing embryo. Additionally, hCG supports the corpus luteum, which is essential for producing hormones that prevent menstruation and ensure that the body remains ready for fetal development.
• Discuss the implications of measuring hCG levels in pregnancy tests and what abnormal levels might indicate.
  • Measuring hCG levels is fundamental in pregnancy tests because it serves as a marker for early pregnancy. Normal levels indicate that a pregnancy is likely viable, while abnormal levels can suggest potential issues. For instance, low hCG levels may indicate an ectopic pregnancy or impending miscarriage, whereas very high levels could signal conditions like molar pregnancy or multiple pregnancies. Therefore, monitoring hCG is essential for assessing the health of both the mother and developing fetus.
• Evaluate how hCG impacts not only pregnancy but also fertility treatments and potential health concerns associated with its abnormal levels.
  • Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) has a significant impact on both natural pregnancies and fertility treatments. In fertility therapies, hCG is often administered to trigger ovulation, thereby increasing the chances of conception. However, its abnormal levels can lead to various health concerns; for instance, excessively high levels may indicate gestational trophoblastic disease, while low levels may lead to investigations for possible miscarriages or ectopic pregnancies. Understanding hCG's roles aids in managing reproductive health effectively.

Related terms

Progesterone: A hormone released by the ovaries and later by the placenta that helps maintain the uterine lining for a healthy pregnancy.

Placenta: An organ that develops in the uterus during pregnancy, providing oxygen and nutrients to the growing fetus while removing waste products.

Luteinizing Hormone (LH): A hormone produced by the pituitary gland that triggers ovulation and stimulates the production of hCG during pregnancy.