In early pregnancy, which hormones are secreted by the placenta to support the pregnancy?

• A. Secretes estrogen and progesterone.
• B. Excretes prolactin and insulin.
• C. Produces nutrients for fetal nutrition.
• D. Forms a protective, impenetrable barrier.

Answer: (A)

Estrogen and progesterone produced by the placenta help sustain the pregnancy in early gestation. Progesterone keeps the uterine lining prepared and relaxed, preventing uterine contractions and supporting the decidua, so the embryo can implant and grow. Estrogen promotes the growth of the uterus and placenta, increases uterine blood flow, and helps prepare the breasts for later lactation. While the corpus luteum initially supplies progesterone, placental production ramps up and becomes the main source as pregnancy progresses. The other options describe functions not performed by placental hormones: prolactin and insulin are not the placenta’s primary early pregnancy hormones; nutrients for the fetus come through transfer, not hormonal secretion; and a protective barrier is a structural feature, not a hormone-driven effect.