Pregnancy, Childbirth, and Lactation Concepts

This set of flashcards covers key hormones, processes, and terms related to pregnancy, childbirth, and lactation based on the lecture notes.

Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH)

A hormone that stimulates the enlargement of the testes and production of sperm during early puberty.

Luteinizing Hormone (LH)

A hormone that plays a role in the development of male secondary sex characteristics and the menstrual cycle.

Ovulation

The release of an oocyte from the ovary, which is indicated by a surge in luteinizing hormone.

Corpus Luteum

The structure formed from a follicle after ovulation, which secretes estrogen and progesterone.

Colostrum

A milk-like fluid produced in the first days postpartum, high in antibodies and nutrients.

Epidural

A common form of pain relief used during childbirth, involving anesthetics injected into the epidural space.

Involution

The shrinkage of the uterus back to its pre-pregnancy size, achieved through autolysis of uterine cells.

Lactation

The process of producing and ejecting milk from the mammary glands, stimulated by nursing.

Prolactin

A hormone secreted by the pituitary gland that stimulates milk production after childbirth.

Positive Feedback Loop

A process during childbirth where oxytocin release triggers uterine contractions, which in turn stimulate more oxytocin release.