Question

Name the female hormone produced by ovaries that helps in the development of mammary glands.
A. Estrogen
B. Progesterone
C. Prolactin
D. Both A and B

Answer 1

Hormones refer to the chemical messengers that are secreted directly into the blood by the ductless glands. They act differently on different aspects of bodily functions and processes.

Complete Answer:
- Females have basically two important hormones, i.e. estrogen and progesterone. The production of these hormones mainly takes place in the ovaries, adrenal glands. Female sex hormones also influence body weight, hair growth, and bone and muscle growth.
- In females, hormones estrogen and progesterone are produced by ovaries that ensure proper female development and fertility. It plays a vital role in sexual development, reproduction, and general health.
- Both estrogen and progesterone have direct effects on the development of mammary glands. These are essential for the development of the mammary gland. Progesterone stimulates the development of the duct system and during pregnancy, these hormones enhance further development of the mammary glands.
- Prolactin from the anterior pituitary stimulates the production of milk within the glandular tissue, and oxytocin causes the ejection of milk from the glands.

Hence the correct answer is option D.

Note: It is to be noted that progesterone and estrogen have the following roles:
i. Plays important roles in the menstrual cycle.
ii. And in maintaining the early stages of pregnancy.
iii. The onset of puberty.
iv. Development of so-called female secondary sex characteristics, such as breasts, wider hips, pubic hair, and armpit hair.