The HCG Hormone

The hormone HCG or beta-HCG (Human Chorionic Gonadotropin) is a hormone secreted during pregnancy. It has a particular role, and his strength helps reveal a multitude of elements, whether or not associated with pregnancy.

What is the hormone HCG and what is his role? The hormone HCG is secreted at the time of implantation, when the embryo attaches to the uterine wall, which will become the placenta. It’s role is to maintain the corpus luteum and to secrete progesterone itself for implantation. Clearly, if the egg is fixed and that the embryo develops, the body needs progesterone, which requires the corpus luteum, itself dependent on the hormone HCG. Its role in pregnancy is therefore essential.

The hormone HCG: A formidable indicator

Firstly, the hormone HCG, which can detect a pregnancy because it is present in the blood about ten days after fertilization and in urine a few days later. So this hormone is what pregnancy test (urine or clinical blood test) are looking for It can then let’s you know the exact date of the beginning of your pregnancy through the determination of its rate because it varies in a very precise way. It’s level also helps ensure smooth functioning of pregnancy, because if there is a miscarriage or an ectopic pregnancy, the level of hormone HCG can gives early warning.

Finally, thanks to its level between the 15th and 17th week, the hormone HCG is even a risk indicator of trisomy 21! If the rate indicates a risk, amniocentesis can be prescribed to confirm the anomaly, or not.