Question

At which week of pregnancy human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is at peak?

• A. 30 - 41 weeks
• B. 8 - 12 weeks
• C. 13 - 16 weeks
• D. 17 - 29 weeks

Hint:

hCG is used as the basis of pregnancy tests. Its rapid rise and peak at 8–12 weeks is a key clinical marker in early pregnancy.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Recall function of hCG.
hCG is secreted by trophoblastic cells after fertilization. Its main role is to maintain the corpus luteum in the ovary during the first trimester, so that progesterone secretion continues to support the endometrium and pregnancy.
Step 2: Pattern of hCG levels.
After conception, hCG levels rise rapidly, doubling every 48–72 hours. They continue to increase in early pregnancy. hCG levels reach their maximum peak between 8–12 weeks of gestation.
After this, the levels start to decline and stabilize at a lower level throughout the remainder of the pregnancy.
Step 3: Analyze options.
- (A) 30–41 weeks: This is near term; hCG is stable but not at peak.
- (B) 8–12 weeks: Correct. This is the well-established peak period for hCG.
- (C) 13–16 weeks: At this stage, hCG levels have already started to decline.
- (D) 17–29 weeks: Levels remain stable, not peak.
Step 4: Conclusion.
Therefore, hCG reaches its peak during the 8–12 weeks of pregnancy, after which it declines and stabilizes.