ANATOMY

GENERAL ANATOMY

ENDOCRINE SYSTEM

Question [CLICK ON ANY CHOICE TO KNOW THE RIGHT ANSWER]
Which hormone induces a positive feedback mechanism by causing increasing frequency of contractions during childbirth
A
prolactin
B
progesterone
C
oxytocin
D
estrogen
Explanation: 

Detailed explanation-1: -Oxytocin is a natural hormone that stimulates uterine contractions in childbirth and lactation after childbirth. It also affects aspects of human behavior and the male and female reproductive systems.

Detailed explanation-2: -Oxytocin contracts the uterus and promotes the progress of labour. A large oxytocin pulse occurs with the birth, and pulses continue afterwards, which help the new mother to birth the placenta, prevent bleeding, and warm her chest for skin-to-skin contact with her baby.

Detailed explanation-3: -The release of oxytocin from the posterior pituitary gland during labor is an example of positive feedback mechanism. Oxytocin stimulates the muscle contractions that push the baby through the birth canal. The release of oxytocin result in stronger or augmented contractions during labor.

Detailed explanation-4: -Oxytocin is released in response to activation of sensory nerves during labor, breastfeeding and sexual activity. In addition oxytocin is released in response to low intensity stimulation of the skin, e.g., in response to touch, stroking, warm temperature, etc.

Detailed explanation-5: -Oxytocin production and secretion is controlled by a positive feedback mechanism where release of the hormone causes an action that stimulates more of its own release.

There is 1 question to complete.