Question

The function of the placental hormone human placental lactogen (hPL) is to ________. Question 12 options: prepare the breasts for lactation nourish the placenta regulate the menstrual cycle help the placenta to mature All of the above are true.

Answer 1

The human placental lactogen (hPL) hormone mainly prepares the breasts for lactation. It works with other hormones to develop breast tissue, ensuring functionality for milk production after childbirth.

Step-by-step explanation:

The function of the placental hormone human placental lactogen (hPL) is primarily to prepare the breasts for lactation. During pregnancy, hPL contributes to the growth and development of the breasts, preparing them anatomically for the secretion of milk. The level of hPL increases gradually throughout pregnancy, along with other hormones like prolactin, to facilitate the development of lactiferous ducts and alveoli lined with milk-secreting cells.

After childbirth, the levels of estrogen and progesterone drop because the placenta is expelled, lifting the inhibition on prolactin-mediated milk synthesis. The result is the commencement of milk production. In addition to prolactin, hormones such as oxytocin are released during breastfeeding, which helps with the milk ejection reflex and increases uterine contractions to return it to its pre-pregnancy size.

Answer 2

nourish the placenta

Step-by-step explanation:

The hormone called human placental lactogen (hPL) is a hormone secreted by the placenta, which functions to supply nutrients and oxygen to the growing fetus in the womb.

The human placental lactogen is produced to help in the efficient use of ingested food substances in the production of energy (metabolism). This indirectly helps to nourish the placenta because if the mother efficiently converts food into nutrients, the placenta is also adequately nourished.