North American Registry of Midwives (NARM) Practice Exam

Which hormone plays a critical role in promoting fetal growth during pregnancy?

1. Estrogen

2. Progesterone

3. Insulin

4. HCG

The correct answer is: Insulin

Insulin plays a vital role in promoting fetal growth during pregnancy, mainly due to its influence on glucose metabolism. During pregnancy, insulin levels rise to ensure that sufficient glucose is available for the growing fetus. Insulin helps to facilitate the uptake of glucose by cells, which is crucial for energy production and growth. In addition to promoting the storage of glucose, insulin also influences the metabolism of other nutrients, including amino acids and fatty acids, which are essential for fetal development. High levels of insulin are important for the fetus because they support the increased energy demands as fetal tissues and organs are developing. While other hormones like estrogen, progesterone, and HCG are important in regulating various aspects of pregnancy, such as maintaining the uterine lining and supporting early pregnancy, they do not have the same direct impact on fetal growth in terms of regulating nutrient availability and metabolism as insulin does. Thus, insulin's specific actions on nutrient metabolism make it critical for promoting fetal growth during pregnancy.