Chorionic gonadotropin

Chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is a hormone produced during pregnancy by the developing placenta. It supports the early pregnancy by stimulating the ovaries to produce progesterone, which helps maintain the uterine lining for the developing embryo. hCG is also the hormone detected by pregnancy tests. Additionally, it is sometimes used medically to treat fertility issues and certain cancers. Its levels rise rapidly in early pregnancy, making it a useful marker for pregnancy health.