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Multiple Choice
Which placental hormone helps stimulate contractions of the uterus during labor?
A
Oxytocin
B
Human placental lactogen (hPL)
C
Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG)
D
Progesterone
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the role of hormones in labor: During labor, specific hormones are responsible for stimulating uterine contractions to facilitate childbirth. These hormones are produced by the placenta or other parts of the body.
Identify oxytocin's function: Oxytocin is a hormone produced by the hypothalamus and released by the posterior pituitary gland. It plays a key role in stimulating strong uterine contractions during labor and is not directly produced by the placenta.
Evaluate human placental lactogen (hPL): hPL is a hormone produced by the placenta, but its primary role is to regulate maternal metabolism and support fetal growth. It does not directly stimulate uterine contractions.
Assess human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG): hCG is another placental hormone, but its main function is to maintain the corpus luteum during early pregnancy and support progesterone production. It does not contribute to uterine contractions during labor.
Analyze progesterone's role: Progesterone is crucial for maintaining pregnancy by relaxing the uterine muscles to prevent premature contractions. However, its levels decrease near labor to allow contractions to occur. It does not directly stimulate contractions during labor.