What hormone is associated with positive feedback during childbirth?

Oxytocin is the hormone associated with positive feedback during childbirth. This hormone plays a crucial role in the process of labor by stimulating uterine contractions. As the contractions begin, they push the baby towards the cervix, which in turn stimulates the release of more oxytocin from the pituitary gland. This increased level of oxytocin causes stronger and more frequent contractions, creating a feedback loop that intensifies until delivery occurs.

The positive feedback mechanism is vital because it helps ensure that labor progresses effectively. After childbirth, oxytocin also aids in the release of breast milk and contributes to maternal bonding. The other hormones listed, while important in various physiological processes, do not primarily function through a positive feedback mechanism during childbirth. For instance, estrogen is involved in the preparation of the uterus for labor, prolactin is primarily linked to milk production, and progesterone helps to maintain pregnancy but does not play a direct role in initiating labor through positive feedback.