Question

The foetal ejection reflex in humans triggers

• A. Placental delivery
• B. Release of oxytocin from maternal pituitary
• C. Release of hCG from the placenta
• D. Release of oxytocin from the foetal pituitary

Answer 1

The correct option is B

Release of oxytocin from maternal pituitary

Signals from a fully grown foetus and its placenta induce mild contractions in the uterus known as the foetal ejection reflex. This triggers a neuroendocrine loop which stimulates the mother’s pituitary gland to secrete oxytocin, which in turn increases uterine contractions.