Question

At which week of pregnancy does Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG) typically reach its peak?

• A. 4–5 weeks
• B. 8–10 weeks
• C. 16–18 weeks
• D. 24–26 weeks

Hint:

{hCG levels rise rapidly in early pregnancy and peak at about 8–10 weeks}, after which they gradually decline.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Concept: Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG) is a glycoprotein hormone produced by the developing placenta shortly after implantation.
Its primary early role is to maintain the corpus luteum, which secretes progesterone essential for early pregnancy.
Step 2: Key Formula or Approach: The approach requires understanding the normal gestational timeline and the physiological secretion pattern of hCG throughout the trimesters.
Step 3: Detailed Explanation: Serum hCG levels rise rapidly during the first trimester of pregnancy.
They typically double every 48 to 72 hours, reaching a peak concentration around the 8th to 10th week of gestation.
After reaching this peak, the hCG levels gradually decline and then plateau at a lower concentration for the remainder of the pregnancy, as the placenta fully takes over the primary role of progesterone production.
Step 4: Final Answer: hCG levels typically peak around 8 to 10 weeks of pregnancy.