Chorionic gonadotrophin meaning

Chorionic gonadotrophin definitions

Chorionic gonadotrophin, also known as human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), is a hormone that is produced by the placenta during pregnancy. This hormone plays a crucial role in supporting the development of the growing fetus and maintaining the pregnancy.

Function of Chorionic Gonadotrophin

Chorionic gonadotrophin helps to sustain the corpus luteum, a structure in the ovary that produces progesterone during the early stages of pregnancy. Progesterone is essential for maintaining the uterine lining and supporting the developing embryo. Without an adequate level of chorionic gonadotrophin, the corpus luteum would degenerate, leading to a decrease in progesterone levels and potential pregnancy loss.

Role in Pregnancy Tests

Chorionic gonadotrophin is the hormone detected by pregnancy tests, both at-home urine tests and blood tests performed by healthcare providers. The presence of hCG in a woman's system indicates that an embryo has implanted in the uterus and that pregnancy has occurred. The levels of hCG rise rapidly in early pregnancy, doubling approximately every 48 to 72 hours.

Medical Uses of Chorionic Gonadotrophin

Aside from pregnancy tests, chorionic gonadotrophin is also used in assisted reproductive technology (ART) procedures such as in vitro fertilization (IVF). It is administered to trigger ovulation in women undergoing fertility treatments. Additionally, hCG is sometimes prescribed to treat certain hormonal imbalances in men and women.

In summary, chorionic gonadotrophin is a vital hormone in pregnancy that supports the developing fetus by maintaining the corpus luteum and promoting the production of progesterone. It is also the hormone detected by pregnancy tests and has medical applications in assisted reproductive technology and hormonal therapy.

Chorionic gonadotrophin Examples

1. A pregnant woman's body produces chorionic gonadotrophin to support the growing fetus.
2. Doctors may test for chorionic gonadotrophin levels in a woman's blood to confirm pregnancy.
3. Chorionic gonadotrophin levels can be abnormally high in certain medical conditions.
4. Some athletes abuse chorionic gonadotrophin to enhance performance illegally.
5. Chorionic gonadotrophin injections are sometimes used to treat infertility in women.
6. Medical professionals monitor chorionic gonadotrophin levels to track the progress of a pregnancy.
7. Chorionic gonadotrophin can also be detected in certain types of cancer, such as testicular cancer.
8. Patients undergoing fertility treatments may require chorionic gonadotrophin injections.
9. Chorionic gonadotrophin plays a crucial role in the implantation and development of the embryo.
10. Ectopic pregnancies can sometimes result in abnormal levels of chorionic gonadotrophin in the body.

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