pregnancy hormones

Question 1

what is the role of oestrogen during pregnancy

Answer 1

• inhibit FSH so new follicles dont develop
• inhibit LH so ovulation cant occur
• stimulates the growth of the uterus to accommodate foetus
• stimulates growth of mammary glands

Question 2

what is the role of progesterone during pregnancy

Answer 2

• maintain the lining of the endometrium

- prevents contractions of the uterine wall

Question 3

what are the lactation hormones

Answer 3

1) oxytocin

2) prolactin

Question 4

what is the role of oxytocin during pregnancy

Answer 4

muscle contraction

• the myometrium
• the milk ducts

Question 5

where is oxytocin produced

Answer 5

posterior pituitary gland

Question 6

what is the role of prolactin during pregnancy

Answer 6

synthesis of milk

Question 7

where is prolactin produced

Answer 7

the anterior pituitary gland

Question 8

Oultine the events which occur just before birth in regards to hormones levels

Answer 8

1) oestrogen levels still increase
2) progesterone levels begin to decrease allowing the uterine walls to contract
3) the decrease in progesterone allows secretion of oxytocin and prolatin

Question 9

outline events which occur during birth and postpartum in regards to hormone level

Answer 9

1) oxytocin is secreted by the posterior pituitary gland and causes contractions of the myometrium
2) release of oxytocin is on a positive feedback mechanism leading to increased oxytocin levels and stronger contractions so oxytocin levels peak at birth
3) prolactin is secreted by the anterior pituitary gland and stimulates mammary glands to synthesis milk
4) milk is released when oxytocin causes muscle contractions around milk ducts