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Multiple Choice
Which of the following is a primary function of oxytocin in the human body?
A
Increases heart rate
B
Promotes sodium reabsorption in the kidneys
C
Regulates blood glucose levels
D
Stimulates uterine contractions during childbirth
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Begin by identifying oxytocin as a hormone produced by the hypothalamus and stored in the posterior pituitary gland. It plays a significant role in reproductive and social bonding processes.
Step 2: Understand the primary function of oxytocin in the human body. Oxytocin is most well-known for its role in stimulating uterine contractions during childbirth, which helps in the delivery of the baby.
Step 3: Eliminate the incorrect options by analyzing their relationship to oxytocin. For example, oxytocin does not increase heart rate, promote sodium reabsorption in the kidneys, or regulate blood glucose levels. These functions are associated with other hormones like adrenaline, aldosterone, and insulin, respectively.
Step 4: Focus on the correct answer, which is 'Stimulates uterine contractions during childbirth.' This function is critical for labor and delivery, as oxytocin triggers the smooth muscle contractions of the uterus.
Step 5: Reinforce the understanding that oxytocin also plays a role in milk ejection during breastfeeding and in social bonding, but its primary function during childbirth is to stimulate uterine contractions.