Hormones

Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone (GnRH)

Secreted by the hypothalamus, it triggers the pituitary gland to release FSH and LH.

Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH)

Released by the anterior pituitary gland, it stimulates the growth and maturation of an ovarian follicle.

Luteinizing Hormone (LH)

A hormone from the anterior pituitary that triggers the rupture of the mature follicle, leading to ovulation.

Estrogen

Produced by the ovaries and placenta, it thickens the uterine lining and promotes the growth of the uterus and breasts during pregnancy.

Prostaglandins

Local chemical mediators that assist in ovulation, cause menstrual cramps, and help initiate uterine contractions during labor.

Progesterone

The 'hormone of pregnancy', secreted by the corpus luteum and placenta to maintain the uterine lining and calm uterine muscles.

Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG)

Produced by fetal cells and the early placenta, it maintains pregnancy and is detectable in pregnancy tests.

Relaxin

Secreted by the placenta and corpus luteum, it softens the cervix and relaxes pelvic joints to facilitate childbirth.

Human Placental Lactogen (hPL / hCS)

Produced by the placenta, it prepares breasts for lactation and alters maternal metabolism to benefit the fetus.

Prolactin

A hormone secreted by the anterior pituitary responsible for producing breast milk.

Oxytocin

Released by the posterior pituitary, it stimulates uterine contractions and is involved in the milk ejection reflex during breastfeeding.

What triggers the release of FSH and LH in the menstrual cycle?

Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone (GnRH) from the hypothalamus.

What is the role of Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH)?

It stimulates the ovaries to grow and mature an egg.

What hormone causes ovulation?

A sudden surge of Luteinizing Hormone (LH).

What is the primary function of estrogen during pregnancy?

To thicken the uterine lining and promote growth of the uterus and breasts.

What are prostaglandins responsible for during ovulation?

They help free the egg and cause menstrual cramps.

What does Progesterone do during pregnancy?

Maintains the thick uterine lining and prevents premature contractions.

How is Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG) significant in pregnancy?

It helps maintain pregnancy and is a marker for pregnancy tests.

What is the primary function of Relaxin?

To soften the cervix and relax pelvic joints for childbirth.

What role does Human Placental Lactogen (hPL) play during pregnancy?

It prepares breasts for lactation and alters maternal metabolism.

What is the function of Prolactin in the reproductive system?

To stimulate the production of breast milk.

What does Oxytocin do during labor?

Stimulates uterine contractions.