28. four major hormones in pregnancy describe a woman’s bodily adoption to pregnancy

Research

There are three trimesters in a pregnancy .0-13 months the carpus lutetium produces most of the estrogen and progesterone that supports the embryo and aids in the development of the placenta.14-26 weeks the corpus lutetium degenerates, and the placenta takes over as the hormone producer and started to produce estrogen that supports both fetus and mother. Blood volume increases to supply blood to extended regions this may cause high blood pressure.27-38 weeks the lungs work harder and the fetus descent into the lower uterus applying pressure to the bladder causing frequent urination. (John Hopkin 2021)

A pregnant female has a much higher level of hormone in their bodies than an average person. They produce hormones such as estrogen, progesterone (HCG) human chorionic gonadotropin, and human placenta lactogen (HPL). Estrogen is responsible for the enlargement of the uterus, hyperpigmentation (pregnancy mask), striae (stretch marks), and vascular changes to supply the uterus with more blood. The estrogen also alters the sodium and water retention causing edema in the late stages of pregnancy (John Hopkins 2021).

Progesterone maintains the endometrium; this maintains the pregnancy while preventing a miscarriage it also inhibits contraction until the fetus is full term. This hormone also aids in duct development for lactation while decreasing smooth muscle tone in the body constipation, heartburn, and varicose veins. The human chorionic gonadotrophin is the hormone that is only produced during pregnancy within the placenta. HCG found in the mother’s blood and urine rises during the first trimester. This hormone plays a part in nausea and vomiting during pregnancy. Human Placental Lactogen also known as the human somatomammotropin produced by the placenta to provide nutrition to the fetus and stimulate milk glands in the breast for feeding the baby. (John Hopkins 2021)

Critical Thinking

The HCG on all the pregnancy tests refers to the detection of the hormone found only in pregnant women this can be detected as early as day three of pregnancy. Looking back on when I was pregnant, I guess the glow came from the estrogen level. So many women are faced with the unbearable misfortune of the inability to carry a fetus to full term due to early unset of contractions that are due to a disruption of the progesterone level. All four hormones play a vital role in maintaining, protecting, nourishing, and developing the fetus.