During the first trimester, which structure primarily produces estrogen and progesterone?

During the first trimester, which structure primarily produces estrogen and progesterone?

• A. Corpus luteum
• B. Placenta
• C. Hypothalamus
• D. Adrenal gland

Answer: (A)

In the first trimester, the corpus luteum serves as the main producer of estrogen and progesterone. After ovulation, this structure forms from the remaining follicle and releases progesterone to maintain the thick, nutrient-rich lining of the uterus needed to support early pregnancy. The developing embryo secretes human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), which acts like LH to rescue the corpus luteum and keep its hormone production high until the placenta is ready to take over. By the end of the first trimester, the placenta becomes the primary source of these hormones as it matures and assumes long-term support of the pregnancy. The hypothalamus and adrenal glands do not provide the main hormonal support for sustaining early pregnancy in this period.

In the first trimester, the corpus luteum serves as the main producer of estrogen and progesterone. After ovulation, this structure forms from the remaining follicle and releases progesterone to maintain the thick, nutrient-rich lining of the uterus needed to support early pregnancy. The developing embryo secretes human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), which acts like LH to rescue the corpus luteum and keep its hormone production high until the placenta is ready to take over. By the end of the first trimester, the placenta becomes the primary source of these hormones as it matures and assumes long-term support of the pregnancy. The hypothalamus and adrenal glands do not provide the main hormonal support for sustaining early pregnancy in this period.