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There are a number of different hormones involved in pregnancy, and I will outline the main hormones and their purposes below:

  • Human Chorionic Gonadotrophin - this is involved in the maintanence of the corpus luteum, which secretes progesterone and oestrogen during the first 12 weeks of pregnancy, after which the placenta takes over production of these hormones. This hormone is secreted by the chorion/placenta.
  • Oestrogen - initially secreted by the corpus luteum up to 12 weeks, after which placenta takes over secretion of this hormone.Oestrogen inhibits the hormones FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone) and LH ( Lutenising hormone), both of which are involved in the process of ovulation in a menstruating woman. During pregnancy, menstruation must stop, and so Oestrogen inhibits these 2 hormones. It also acts on the uterus, causing growth of the uterus and increasing the sensitivity of the uterus to the hormone oxytocin which is involved in the processes of birth and lactation. It also inhibits the hormone prolactin, and thus inhibits lactation during pregnancy. However, it stimulates the development of the ductal system in the breasts in preparation for lactation after the baby has been born. Causes a softening and relaxing of the ligament of the pelvic girdle.
  • Progesterone - again this is initially secreted by the corpus luteum, and later by the placenta. It stimulates the development of milk glands, and also inhibits the secretion of prolactin ( in order to stop lactation) and also inhibits FSH and LH. It stimulates growth and glandular activity of the uterus. It is essential for successful implantation and maintainence of the endometrium, stimulates endometrial glands to secrete nutrients taken up by the developing embryo and slightl supresses the mother's immune system so the foetus is not rejected. As a steroid hormone, it is transferred to the fetus and used by the fetus for production of fetal hormones by the fetal adrenals. It also quitens muscular contractions of the uterus to prevent premature expulsion of the fetus, causes mammary glands to develop and enhances their ability to produce milk.
  • Human placental lactogen - hormone made in the placenta which gives foetus priority over maternal glucose and fatty acids. Also known as Human Chorionic Somatomammotrophin.
  • Prolactin - secreted by the maternal anterior lobe of pituitary gland, it is essential for expression of oestrogen and progesterone on the mammary glands. Having said that, oestrogen (and progesterone) inhibits lactation until birth. When levels of Oestrogen and Progesterone then decrease after birth, prolactin can exert its effects fully and lactation can take place.
  • Relaxin - Causes the relaxation of ligaments, softens the cervix and inhibits muscle contractions.
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13y ago

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