Question

Name the hormones that regulate uterine contraction and mention the source of it.

Answer 1

Contraction of uterine smooth muscles during the menstrual cycle and childbirth is called uterine contraction. During childbirth uterine contraction causes the opening of the cervix which leads the baby to enter into the canal. During the menstrual cycle contraction of the uterine is called a menstrual cramp.

Complete answer:
Uterine contraction during childbirth is regulated by a hormone, named oxytocin. It is a neuropeptide hormone. Oxytocin is secreted by the hypothalamus and is released by the posterior pituitary gland in labor. The main function of this hormone is to open the cervix by contracting the uterus muscle. Oxytocin also stimulates the nipples and helps in breastfeeding and milk production.

The synthesis of oxytocin is controlled by a positive feedback loop. It is a self secreting hormone. When contraction of the uterus occurs oxytocin releases from the posterior pituitary gland. Released oxytocin then stimulates more uterine muscle contraction which leads to more synthesis of oxytocin.

Oxytocin follows the same process of secretion during breastfeeding. Sucking of the breast by the baby causes the release of oxytocin in the mother’s body which further stimulates the brain cell to secrete more oxytocin hormone.

Note: Another type of uterine contraction can happen during pregnancy. This is called Practice contraction or Braxton Hicks contraction. Practice contraction can be observed during the sixteenth week of pregnancy. Practice contraction can occur due to some reasons like full bladder condition, dehydration, etc. It can be avoided by changing movement or lying down on the left side or by urination.