Pregnancy

Question 1

Functions of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG)

Answer 1

1. Maintains corpus luteum
2. Stimulates conversion of maternal LDL to progesterone in placenta
3. Regulates development of fetal adrenal glands & gonads in 1st trimester
4. Prevents fetal rejection

Question 2

Functions of progesterone (pro-gestation)

Answer 2

1. Inhibits prostaglandins thus reducing uterine contractility
2. Inhibits FSH thus inhibiting ovulation
3. Stimulates secretion of endometrial glands
4. Prevents fetal rejection

Question 3

Effects of human chorionic somato-mammo-tropin (hCS)

Answer 3

1. Hyperinsulinemia
2. Peripheral insulin resistance –> increase in blood glucose
3. Decreases maternal utilization of glucose –> increases availability of glucose for fetus