Final answer:
It is true that conditions like pregnancy can permanently affect hormone levels. Pregnancy leads to increased production of hormones such as thyrotropin, prolactin, and ACTH, which affect the maternal body in various ways, including preparing it for milk production. These changes can have lasting effects post-pregnancy.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that there are other physical conditions, like pregnancy, that can permanently affect tropic and other hormone concentrations is true. Pregnancy has profound effects on the endocrine system. During pregnancy, the anterior pituitary gland enlarges and increases its production of hormones such as thyrotropin, prolactin, and adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH). These hormones play critical roles in supporting the pregnancy and preparing the body for motherhood.
For instance, thyrotropin, working with placental hormones, ramps up the production of thyroid hormone, which can raise the maternal metabolic rate, possibly leading to increased appetite and hot flashes. Prolactin is vital as it prepares the mammary glands for milk production. Additionally, ACTH promotes the secretion of cortisol from the mother, which plays a role in fetal protein synthesis. Increased levels of parathyroid hormone help mobilize calcium from maternal bones for the baby's development.
These hormonal changes can have lasting effects even after pregnancy. After childbirth, for example, the body may permanently adjust in its hormonal responses due to changes that occurred during pregnancy.