What does hcG stand for in pregnancy testing?

In the context of pregnancy testing, hcG stands for Human chorionic gonadotropin. This hormone is produced by the placenta shortly after a fertilized egg attaches to the uterine lining. It plays a critical role in maintaining pregnancy during its early stages. When a pregnancy test is conducted, it detects the presence of this hormone in the blood or urine, confirming pregnancy.

The importance of hcG in pregnancy testing lies in its specific production during pregnancy, which distinguishes it from other types of hormones. The other options do not provide the correct terminology used in medical practice. Therefore, recognizing hcG as Human chorionic gonadotropin is essential for understanding its role in pregnancy confirmation and related medical discussions.