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Multiple Choice
The mammary glands of a pregnant female will begin to produce milk in response to changes in the level of which of the following hormones?
A
Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH)
B
Estrogen
C
Luteinizing hormone (LH)
D
Oxytocin
E
Prolactin
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the role of prolactin: Prolactin is a hormone primarily responsible for stimulating milk production in the mammary glands. It is secreted by the anterior pituitary gland and plays a crucial role during pregnancy and after childbirth.
Identify the hormonal changes during pregnancy: During pregnancy, the levels of various hormones fluctuate to support the development of the fetus and prepare the mother's body for childbirth and lactation.
Recognize the role of estrogen: Estrogen levels increase during pregnancy, which helps in the development of the mammary glands. However, estrogen itself does not directly stimulate milk production.
Differentiate between prolactin and other hormones: While hormones like oxytocin are involved in milk ejection (let-down reflex), prolactin is specifically responsible for the production of milk.
Conclude with the correct hormone: Given the options, prolactin is the hormone that directly influences the production of milk in the mammary glands of a pregnant female.