Question

The foetal ejection reflex in humans triggers the release of

• A. human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) from placenta
• B. oxytocin from fetal pituitary
• C. oxytocin from maternal pituitary
• D. human placental lactogen (hPL) from placenta

Answer 1

The correct option is C

oxytocin from maternal pituitary

The correct option is C:

Explanation of correct option:

1. The mild uterine contractions called fetal ejection reflex originate from the fully developed fetus and the placenta.
2. The release of oxytocin from the maternal pituitary gland is triggered by the fetal ejection reflex.
3. Stronger contractions are induced by oxytocin's effect on the uterine muscle, which in turn triggers more oxytocin release.
4. Stronger and stronger contractions come from the ongoing stimulatory reflex between uterine contraction and oxytocin release, which causes the baby to be expelled from the uterus through the birth canal.

Explanation of incorrect options:

Option A:

1. Human chorionic gonadotropin hormone is produced during pregnancy by the placenta.
2. It helps make the uterine lining of the mother thick to support the embryo and it also stops menstruation.
3. Hence, it is an incorrect option.

Option B:

1. The oxytocin from the fetal pituitary gland is not triggered by the fetal ejection reflex.

Option D:

1. Human placental lactogen hormone is released by the placenta during pregnancy.
2. It helps in regulating the metabolism to provide extra energy.
3. It also makes the body less sensitive to insulin leaving more glucose in blood flow to nourish the fetus.
4. Hence, it is an incorrect option

Final Answer: The fetal ejection reflex in humans triggers the release of oxytocin from maternal pituitary.