Question

The Placenta has endocrine function and produces several hormones. Which of the
following is produced in the later phase of pregnancy?
1. Progestogens
2. Oestrogen
3. Relaxin
4. Human chorionic gonadotropin

Answer 1

Correct Answer - Option 3 : Relaxin

Concept:

• The chorionic villi & uterine tissue get interdigitated with each other to form the structural & functional unit between the developing fetus and the maternal body called the placenta.
• The placenta facilitates different physiological processes like nutrient uptake, waste elimination, and gaseous exchange via the mother’s blood supply.

Explanation:

• The Placenta has an endocrine function and produces several hormones like human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), human placental lactogen (hPL), estrogens & progestogens. In the later phase of the pregnancy, a hormone called relaxin is also secreted.
• Relaxin as the name suggests is used to keep the smooth muscles of the uterus relaxed. It is secreted in large amounts during parturition.
• It loosens or relaxes the pubic symphysis, due to which the birth canal gets widen up to assist the parturition.

• hCG, hPL and relaxin are produced in a woman during pregnancy only  

• Progestogen: Progestogen is the synthetic form of progesterone. It helps in maintaining the pregnancy.
• Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG): It is produced by the cells forming the placenta. The major function of hCG is the maintenance of the corpus luteum that produces the progesterone required to keep the pregnancy. It also forms a basis for the counter pregnancy test as it can be detected in the body just after 1 week of fertilization.
• Estrogen, or oestrogen: It is a sex hormone responsible for the development and regulation of the female reproductive system and secondary sex characteristics.