Define effect on Human chorionic gonadotropin in Pregnancy?
Human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) begins to increase immediately on implantation of the ovum and reaches a peak at around 8 weeks of gestation. It then declines to a stable value until birth. In the first 8-10 weeks, HCG maintains the corpus luteum which is the main source of oestrogens and progesterone in the early weeks of pregnancy. These hormones play an essential role in the development of the placenta.