Step 1: Understanding the Question:
We need to find which of the four hormones listed is not produced by the placenta during pregnancy.
Step 2: Key Concept:
The placenta acts as a temporary endocrine organ during pregnancy, but it does not take over every hormone in the body, some remain the job of the pituitary gland.
Step 3: Detailed Explanation:
Estrogen and progesterone are both produced in growing amounts by the placenta as pregnancy progresses, supporting uterine growth and preventing early contractions.
hCG is one of the earliest hormones the placenta secretes, and it keeps the corpus luteum active until the placenta can sustain progesterone production on its own.
Luteinizing hormone, however, is secreted by the anterior pituitary gland, not the placenta. Its normal role is triggering ovulation before conception, and its release is actually suppressed once pregnancy begins.
Step 4: Final Answer:
LH is the hormone not secreted by the human placenta.