Question:

The foetal ejection reflex in humans triggers the release of

Updated On: Apr 28, 2025

oxytocin from foetal pituitary
human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) from placenta
human placental lactogen (hPL) from placenta
oxytocin from maternal pituitary.

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The Correct Option is D

Solution and Explanation

Parturition is induced by a complex neuroendocrine mechanism. The signals for parturition originate from the fully developed foetus and the placenta which induce mild uterine contractions called foetal ejection reflex. This triggers release of oxytocin from the maternal pituitary. Oxytocin acts on the uterine muscles and causes stronger uterine contractions, which in turn stimulates further secretion of oxytocin. The stimulatory reflex between the uterine contraction and oxytocin secretion continues resulting in stronger and stronger contractions. This leads to expulsion of the baby out of the uterus through the birth canal i.e., parturition.

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Concepts Used:

Parturition and Lactation

Parturition:

It is the process of the contraction of the uterus at regular intervals that helps in the delivery of the baby at the end of pregnancy. The signals that the fully developed fetus sends through the placenta for ejection is called Foetal ejection reflex. These signals induce muscular contractions.

The time period from fertilization to childbirth is called the gestation period.

Lactation:

It is the process of production of milk by the mammary glands at the end of pregnancy. The milk produced initially by the glands is called colostrum. This milk is crucial for the baby as it provides the child with initial immunity.