HCG (chorionic gonadotropin)

HCG is a "pregnancy hormone" produced by the embryo wall (chorion) immediately after its attachment to the uterus wall. Therefore, the appearance of the hormone in the body indicates the onset of pregnancy. HCG is produced on the 5th – 6th day from the moment of fertilization, for this reason, the hormone is rightfully called a "marker of pregnancy". The function of the hormone is to affect the yellow body of the ovary, which produces progesterone and estrogens necessary for the normal course of pregnancy, in addition, HCG stimulates the production of testosterone in the male fetus.

Testosterone promotes the development of the fetus according to the male type. Another diagnostic value of the test is that a certain concentration of HCG corresponds to certain periods of pregnancy. If the HCG level does not meet the deadline, then this indicates that fetus development may be impaired and more knowledge-intensive and expensive instrumental examination methods are needed to clarify the diagnosis. HCG analysis is included in the prenatal screening program "PRISCA" to identify the threat of congenital genetic diseases such as Down and Edwards syndrome.