HCG Levels in Pregnancy

HCG is more than a hormone used to test for confirmation of pregnancy. It is used by the body in many vital pregnancy functions. HCG functions include:

• maintaining production of progesterone by the corpus luteum
• maintaining the endometrium during the first trimester
• stimulates fetal gonad development and androgen synthesis by the fetal testes
• stimulates secretion of estrogen and development of the placenta


If a woman's HCG levels remain low, this can inhibit proper ovulation and fetal development during pregnancy. Often times doctors will test HCG levels to see if a fetus is functioning normally. HCG injections can be administered to aid in ovulation and fetal development.