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Summary Of The Other Hormones

The following list gives a quick summary of the primary function of the other pregnancy hormones that have not been discussed up to now:

• HSC (Human Chorionic Somatomammotropin)) or HPL (Human Placental Lactogen) - This hormone is regulated by estrogen and is produced within the placenta.  It plays a part in the development of the foetus and helps the breasts develop the glands that will be required for breastfeeding. It also reduces the level of glucose consumed by the mother.  The levels increase steadily from 3 weeks gestation to a limit in the last month of pregnancy.

• Calcitonin - This protein based hormone is used to regulate the bone development and to stop calcium from transferring from the bones into the blood system.

• Thyroxine (T4 & T3) - This is needed for the development of the central nervous system.  It also increases oxygen consumption and develops the ability of the foetus to metabolise proteins and carbohydrates.   On top of this, it interacts with growth hormones to regulate and stimulate the baby's growth.

• Insulin - Helps the baby to store food in it's body and to regulate glucose levels.

• Relaxin - encourages the cervix and the pelvic muscles to relax, thus helping with labour and birth.

• Oxytocin - This hormone is released as a response to stretching the cervix or stimulation of the nipples.  It has the effect of making the uterus contract so that birth happens rapidly.  It also stimulates the mammary glands to produce milk.  High levels of progesterone will prevent oxytocin from having an effect.  Only when progesterone levels drop close to the birth will the effects of this hormone be felt.

• Erythropoietin - Produced in the kidneys, this hormone looks after bone marrow and red blood cell production.

• Cortisol - Helps the baby use various foods properly within the body.

• Prolactin - This hormone is made by the baby's kidneys and is reduced about a week after birth.  The levels remain high within the mother's blood for about two weeks after birth.  Prolactin is important for the regulation of the mother's metabolism during the pregnancy and assists in the stimulation of immune system cell growth.  It helps prepares the breasts for breastfeeding and promotes the growth of the baby.

Introduction

1. Progesterone production

2. The role of progesterone

3. The role of estrogen (oestrogen)

4. Summary of some other hormones

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