Question

Hormones produced by the placenta to maintain pregnancy are --------------------.

• A. hCG, prolactin, relaxin
• B. progesterone, relaxin, oxytocin
• C. hCG, estrogen, progesterone
• D. hCG, estrogen, prolactin

Hint:

The placenta releases hCG, estrogen and progesterone, while prolactin and oxytocin come from the pituitary region.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept
During pregnancy the placenta works as a temporary endocrine organ.

Step 2: Placental hormones
It secretes human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), which keeps the corpus luteum active in early pregnancy. It also secretes estrogen and progesterone, which maintain the uterine lining. Human placental lactogen and relaxin are also released.

Step 3: Compare the options
Prolactin is secreted by the anterior pituitary and oxytocin is released by the posterior pituitary. So only the group hCG, estrogen and progesterone fits.

Final Answer:
The placental hormones are hCG, estrogen and progesterone. \[ \boxed{\text{(C) }\text{hCG, estrogen, progesterone}} \]