Which hormone increases during pregnancy to support fetal development?

During pregnancy, human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) plays a critical role in supporting fetal development. This hormone is produced by the placenta shortly after implantation and is crucial for maintaining the corpus luteum, which in turn ensures the continued production of progesterone and estrogen during the early stages of pregnancy. These hormones help maintain the uterine lining, providing a nurturing environment for the developing embryo.

hCG is not only important for the maintenance of early pregnancy but also contributes to the growth and development of the placenta itself, which is vital for nutrient transfer between the mother and fetus. Additionally, hCG is the hormone detected in pregnancy tests, signaling that conception has occurred.

While estrogen and progesterone are also essential during pregnancy, their increase is primarily regulated by hCG during the initial stages. Oxytocin, on the other hand, plays a critical role during labor but does not significantly increase during early pregnancy for the purpose of supporting fetal development.