During pregnancy in the second trimester, hCG levels ________ and progesterone and estriol levels __________

During pregnancy in the second trimester, hCG levels ________ and progesterone and estriol levels __________

• A. Increase, increase
• B. Increase, decrease
• C. Decrease, increase
• D. Decrease, decrease

Answer: (C)

In the second trimester, the pattern of pregnancy hormones shifts as the placenta takes over hormone production. Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is highest in the first trimester and then falls as the pregnancy progresses. Meanwhile, progesterone and estriol (a form of estrogen) continue to rise to support the growing fetus and maintain the uterine environment. Progesterone helps keep the uterus quiet and the endometrium intact, preventing contractions, while estriol increases as placental estrogen production ramps up with fetal development. So, hCG decreases while progesterone and estriol increase.

In the second trimester, the pattern of pregnancy hormones shifts as the placenta takes over hormone production. Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is highest in the first trimester and then falls as the pregnancy progresses. Meanwhile, progesterone and estriol (a form of estrogen) continue to rise to support the growing fetus and maintain the uterine environment. Progesterone helps keep the uterus quiet and the endometrium intact, preventing contractions, while estriol increases as placental estrogen production ramps up with fetal development. So, hCG decreases while progesterone and estriol increase.