Question

Is cortisol helpful in parturition?

Answer 1

Parturition:

1. Parturition is defined as the process of giving birth to a child, thereby ending the pregnancy.
2. It is also called labor and delivery.
3. It involves 3 steps - dilation, expulsion, and placental.

Role of cortisol in parturition:

1. A rise in the level of fetal cortisol provides a signal to the placenta which initiates parturition.
2. The cortisol starts a process that leads the mother's pituitary gland to release oxytocin.
3. Oxytocin then causes the uterus to contract, which thereby helps in pushing the baby out.