Name the primary placental hormones and their functions.

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the primary placental hormones, which include human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), human placental lactogen (hPL), progesterone, and estrogen.
2. Explain the function of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG): it maintains the corpus luteum during early pregnancy, ensuring continued production of progesterone to support the uterine lining.
3. Describe the role of human placental lactogen (hPL): it modifies the metabolic state of the mother to facilitate energy supply to the fetus, including promoting lipolysis and reducing maternal glucose use.
4. Discuss the function of progesterone produced by the placenta: it maintains the uterine lining, inhibits uterine contractions to prevent premature labor, and supports fetal development.
5. Explain the role of placental estrogen: it promotes uterine growth, increases blood flow to the uterus, and stimulates the development of mammary glands in preparation for lactation.

Key Concepts

Primary Placental Hormones

These are hormones produced by the placenta during pregnancy, including human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), progesterone, and estrogen. They play crucial roles in maintaining pregnancy and supporting fetal development.

Functions of Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG)

hCG is responsible for maintaining the corpus luteum in early pregnancy, which ensures continued production of progesterone to sustain the uterine lining and prevent menstruation.

Roles of Progesterone and Estrogen in Pregnancy

Progesterone maintains the uterine lining and inhibits uterine contractions, while estrogen promotes uterine growth and blood flow, preparing the body for labor and fetal nourishment.