Search results
Results from the WOW.Com Content Network
Oxytocin is a peptide hormone and neuropeptide normally produced in the hypothalamus and released by the posterior pituitary. [4] Present in animals since early stages of evolution, in humans it plays roles in behavior that include social bonding, love, reproduction, childbirth, and the period after childbirth.
For example, when oxytocin is released during a contraction of the uterus at the start of childbirth, this stimulates production and release of more oxytocin and an increase in the duration, intensity and frequency of contractions. This process compounds in intensity and frequency and continues until the triggering activity ceases.
As a paracrine hormone, relaxin helps the non-pregnant uterus become ready for pregnancy. [23] Women's endometrium contains relaxin, which is an essential component that helps prepare the body for early pregnancy. [21] The endometrium is transformed into decidua during the early pregnancy maintenance procedure. [21]
Oxytocin is a peptide hormone produced in the hypothalamus that plays an important role in many physiological functions. These functions include, enhancing mood and social relationships, promotion of maternal behaviors and stimulations of uterine contractions, among others roles.
The oxytocin receptor, also known as OXTR, is a protein which functions as receptor for the hormone and neurotransmitter oxytocin. [4] [5] In humans, the oxytocin receptor is encoded by the OXTR gene [6] [7] which has been localized to human chromosome 3p25. [8] Evolutionary tree of the oxytocin, vasotocin, mesotocin and isotocin receptors and ...
The Ferguson reflex (also called the fetal ejection reflex) is the neuroendocrine reflex comprising the self-sustaining cycle of uterine contractions initiated by pressure at the cervix, more precisely, the internal end of cervix, or vaginal walls. It is an example of positive feedback in biology. The Ferguson reflex occurs in mammals.
The embryo upregulates hCG, drives growth of the cell, and upregulates P4 production driving development. hCG and P4 direct changes in the mother to enable successful pregnancy (see below) via upregulation of specific hormones that act to direct both endocrinological and biological changes within the mother for successful pregnancy.
It has a major role in the production of breast milk and lactation. It is responsible for muscle contractions in the uterus to facilitate birth. [10] It also assists in ovarian steroid production and ovum release. [10] In men, oxytocin has a role in erections and ejaculation. [10] It also participates in gonadal development in both males and ...