Q. Which of the following hormone is injected to induce labor?
NTA AbhyasNTA Abhyas 2020
Solution:
Vigorous contraction of the uterus at the end of pregnancy causes expulsion or delivery of the foetus. This process of delivery of the foetus resulting in childbirth is known as parturition. It is induced by a complex neuroendocrine mechanism. The signals for parturition are originated by the fully developed foetus, in response to which mild uterine contractions called the foetal ejection reflex are induced by the placenta. This triggers the release of oxytocin from the maternal pituitary.
Oxytocin is produced in the hypothalamus and released by the posterior lobe of the pituitary which is present at the base of the brain. Further secretion of oxytocin is stimulated as the hormone induces the uterine muscle to cause stronger uterine contractions. The stimulatory reflex between the contractions and oxytocin secretion continues to result in stronger and stronger contractions. It is also released when people bond with each other and is also called love or cuddle hormone. It acts on breast and helps in lactation. It helps in its own release using a positive feedback control system. It also helps in prostaglandin production which in turn increases contractions.
Along with the drip, doctors inject oxytocin (or Pitocin, synthetic oxytocin) to increase uterine contractions.
Along with the drip, doctors inject oxytocin (or Pitocin, synthetic oxytocin) to increase uterine contractions.