Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Intermediate Practice Exam

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Study for the EMT Intermediate Exam. Access detailed flashcards and multiple-choice questions that come with hints and explanations. Prepare comprehensively for your EMT certification!

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What is the primary role of human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) in pregnancy?

To regulate body temperature
To act as a contraceptive
To sustain the pregnancy
To stimulate ovulation

The correct answer is: To sustain the pregnancy

Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) plays a crucial role in sustaining pregnancy. Once a fertilized egg implants in the uterine lining, hCG is produced by the developing placenta. Its primary function is to maintain the production of progesterone by the corpus luteum during the early stages of pregnancy. Progesterone is vital for maintaining the uterine lining, preventing menstruation, and supporting the growing embryo. Without sufficient hCG to stimulate the corpus luteum, progesterone levels would drop, leading to a potential miscarriage. Therefore, the presence of hCG in the body is a strong indicator of pregnancy and essential for its continuation, reflecting its role in the early maintenance of pregnancy.