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Ch. 28 Pregnancy and Human Development
Marieb - Human Anatomy & Physiology 11th Edition
Marieb, Hoehn11th EditionHuman Anatomy & PhysiologyISBN: 9780136874034당신이 사용하는 게 아니라요?교과서 변경
28장, 문제 14

What is the function of hCG and why is it not important after the first trimester of pregnancy?

검증된 단계별 안내
1
Understand that hCG stands for human chorionic gonadotropin, a hormone produced by the placenta shortly after implantation.
Recognize that the primary function of hCG is to maintain the corpus luteum during the early stages of pregnancy, which in turn secretes progesterone to sustain the uterine lining.
Know that progesterone is crucial for maintaining a suitable environment for the developing embryo by preventing menstruation and supporting the endometrium.
Realize that after the first trimester, the placenta becomes fully developed and takes over progesterone production, making the role of hCG less critical.
Conclude that hCG levels typically decline after the first trimester because its main function—to support the corpus luteum and early progesterone production—is no longer necessary.

주요 개념

질문에 올바르게 답하기 위해 반드시 이해해야 하는 핵심 개념들은 다음과 같습니다.

Function of hCG (Human Chorionic Gonadotropin)

hCG is a hormone produced by the placenta shortly after implantation. Its primary role is to maintain the corpus luteum, which secretes progesterone to sustain the uterine lining and support early pregnancy. This hormone is crucial for the first trimester to prevent menstruation and promote embryo development.
추천 영상:
1:04
Implantation Example 2

Role of the Corpus Luteum in Early Pregnancy

The corpus luteum is a temporary endocrine structure in the ovary that produces progesterone during early pregnancy. hCG signals the corpus luteum to continue progesterone production until the placenta can take over hormone secretion, ensuring the uterine environment remains suitable for fetal growth.
추천 영상:
2:18
Blastocyst Formation: Days 4-5

Placental Hormone Production After the First Trimester

After the first trimester, the placenta becomes fully developed and takes over progesterone and estrogen production from the corpus luteum. Because the placenta sustains hormone levels independently, hCG levels decline and its role becomes less critical for maintaining pregnancy beyond this stage.
추천 영상:
2:19
The Placenta