Question

(a) Where do the signals for parturition originate from in humans?
 (b) Why is it important to feed the newborn babies on colostrums?

Answer 1

Hint:Parturition involves the orchestration of a complex series of physiological events that require the movement of the fetus into the site of birth that is gone along with a cascade of endocrine modifications that end with a successful delivery. Colostrum is very nutritious and contains high levels of antibodies, which are proteins that fight infections and bacteria.

Complete answer:
To answer this question, we have to know about the parturition and colostrums. Parturition is a process of Childbirth or carrying out the baby and placenta from the uterus to the vagina to the external world. And it is also referred to as labor and delivery.
The signals for parturition develop from the foetus when it becomes completely developed along with hormone oxytocin and relaxation. Oxytocin is secreted from the pituitary gland of the mother that also causes strong uterine shrinkage for the birth of a baby. Relaxin assists in the birth of the baby by moderating the pelvic muscles and ligaments for an easy birth of the baby.

Colostrum is a high supplement fluid formed by female mammals quickly after giving birth, consisting of immune, growth and tissue repair factors. It is a complicated biological fluid that assists in the development of immunity in the newborn baby. It is the first milk formed during the period of pregnancy. It gives important supplements to babies for growth and development such as vitamins, zinc and calcium. It also defends the baby from many bacterial and viral diseases as it is high in leukocytes. Colostrum has a lenitive effect on the baby, supporting him in passing his early stools which aid in the elimination of excessive bilirubin and helps cure jaundice.

Note:Strong shrinkage of the uterus at the final stage of pregnancy results in delivery of the fetus known as parturition. The alerts for parturition originate from the fully developed fetus and the placenta which prompt little uterine contraction is known as fetal expulsion reflex. During this process, oxytocin hormone released, it is commonly called as the "hormone of love" due to the fact that it is related with fertility and shrinkage during labor and baby delivery and the secretion of milk during breastfeeding.