✅ Correct Answer: C — Oxytocin
Oxytocin is released by the Posterior Pituitary Gland during childbirth. It stimulates uterine contractions (labour pains) to facilitate delivery of the baby. After birth, oxytocin also stimulates milk ejection (let-down reflex) during breastfeeding. It is also called the 'love hormone' or 'bonding hormone' as it promotes social bonding and maternal behavior.
❌ Why other options are wrong:
• A. Oestrogen — Oestrogen is the female sex hormone (produced by ovaries); prepares uterus for pregnancy but doesn't directly stimulate uterine contractions during labor.
• B. Progesterone — Progesterone maintains pregnancy and inhibits uterine contractions (opposite effect!); levels drop before labor begins.
• D. Prolactin — Prolactin (from anterior pituitary) stimulates milk production (not ejection); it doesn't stimulate uterine contractions.
📝 Important Note: Oxytocin = uterine contractions + milk ejection. Prolactin = milk production. Both from pituitary gland. Oxytocin is also called 'love hormone' / 'cuddle hormone'. Synthetic oxytocin (Pitocin) used medically to induce or augment labor. Key SSC CGL endocrinology fact.
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