Which of the Following Prevents the Deterioration of the Corpus

Question

Which of the following prevents the deterioration of the corpus luteum during early pregnancy?
A) Prolactin
B) Progesterone
C) Oxytocin
D) Human chorionic gonadotropin

Accepted Answer

Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) prevents the deterioration of the corpus luteum during early pregnancy. hCG secretion by the developing placenta signals to the corpus luteum to maintain its production of progesterone and estrogen. Without hCG, the corpus luteum would degenerate and progesterone levels would drop, leading to the shedding of the endometrial lining and miscarriage.