Human Reproduction Question 43

43. In a normal pregnant woman, the amount of total gonadotropin activity was assessed. The result expected was

[2012]

(a) High level of circulating FSH and LH in the uterus to stimulate implantation of the embyro

(b) High level of circulating HCG to stimulate endometrial thickening

(c) High level of FSH and LH in uterus to stimulate endometrical thickening

(d) High level of circulating HCG to stimulate estrogen and progesterone synthesis

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Answer : d

Hints & Solutions

(d) Pregnancy can be confirmed by detecting the presence of human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) in blood or urine of pregnant woman. HCG is a hormone produced by the placenta after implantation. HCG plays an essential role in maintenance of corpus luteum and allows the secretion of the progesterone and estrogen hormone. Progesterone enriches the uterus with a thick lining of blood vessels and capillaries so that it can sustain the growing foetus. The placenta is fully formed by 18 to 20 weeks but continues to grow throughout pregnancy. At the time of delivery, it weighs about 1 pound.