Hormonal Changes During Pregnancy

Question 1

Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG)

Answer 1

Hormone produced only during pregnancy
Ensures that ovaries produce estrogen and progesterone for first 2-3 months of pregnancy until placenta matures and produces appropriate amount

Question 2

Estrogen

Answer 2

Promotes growth of uterine muscles and their blood supply
Encourages production of vaginal mucus and stimulates development of ductal system and blood supply in breast
Changes in water retention, body fat buildup, and skin pigmentation are related to estrogen levels
In late pregnancy, rising estrogen levels increase uterus’ sensitivity to oxytocin and help start labor

Question 3

Progesterone

Answer 3

Relaxes uterus during pregnancy, keeping it from contracting too much
Relaxes walls of blood vessels - helping maintain healthy blood pressure - and wall of stomach and bowels - allowing for greater absorption of nutrients and sometimes causing constipation
Less effect on uterus in late pregnancy letting contractions increase and start labor

Question 4

Relaxin

Answer 4

From ovaries

Relaxes and softens ligaments, cartilage, and cervix letting pelvic joints spread during birth

Question 5

Prostaglandins

Answer 5

Produced in amniotic membrane
Increases in level during late pregnancy
Soften and ripen cervix in preparation for labor and stimulate muscles in uterus and bowels

Question 6

Corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH)

Answer 6

Comes from baby, placenta and tissues within uterus

Increased levels in late pregnancy change ratio of estrogen to progesterone

Question 7

Oxytocin

Answer 7

Produced in pituitary gland
Stimulates uterine contractions to help trigger onset of labor and promote labor progress
Referred to as “love hormone”
Present during orgasm
Responsible for urge to push at end of labor and for the let-down reflex during breastfeeding
Improves mood and produces feelings of calmness and well-being