Final answer:
Relaxin during pregnancy increases joint and ligament elasticity, helps dilate the cervix, and stimulates maternal tissue growth.
Step-by-step explanation:
During pregnancy, relaxin has several effects on the body:
- It increases the elasticity of the symphysis pubis joint and pelvic ligaments, making room for the growing fetus and allowing expansion of the pelvic outlet for childbirth.
- Relaxin helps dilate the cervix during labor, facilitating the passage of the baby through the birth canal.
- It stimulates maternal tissue growth, leading to uterine enlargement and mammary duct expansion and branching.
These effects of relaxin are important for preparing the body for childbirth and ensuring the successful delivery of the baby.