Relaxin in Pregnancy

RELAXIN Relaxin is a naturally occurring hormone found in both men and women. In females, it is secreted in the ovaries, uterus and breast tissue, and in males, it is secreted in the seminal tubule. Relaxin is a hormone that is secreted by the corpus luteum at ovulation and throughout pregnancy,should conception occur, also in the placenta and the lining of the pregnant uterus. The corpus luteum continues to secrete this hormone in significant amounts throughout pregnancy, unlike progesterone secretion, which declines appreciably. Circulating relaxin shows a marked increase in the late luteal phase of early pregnancy, where the peak value is detected. It can be found in the amniotic fluid and in maternal blood. www.info@phoenixpeptide.com/Catalog%20Files/INSL-2.html Relaxin’s diverse actions in rats. Those seven targets where effects of circulating relaxin have been demonstrated during pregnancy are indicated with solid lines. There is also evidence of action of relaxin in the skin, ovary, liver, heart, and lung. Email: info.@phoenixpeptide.com Relaxin’s actions in the non-reproductive targets occur in both male and female rats, and their physiological significance is not complely understood. The hormone is critical to the functioning of many parts of the human body. For example, it has been shown to effect the relaxation of smooth muscles, and it improves the integrity and quality of collagen within nerve tissue. Receptor sites for relaxin in the body include smooth muscles, cardiac muscles, the autonomic and central nervous systems, and connective tissue. Relaxin: A hormone produced during pregnancy that facilitates the birth process by causing a softening and lengthening of the cervix and the pubic symphysis (the place where the pubic bones come together). Relaxin also inhibits contractions of the uterus and may play a role in timing of delivery. Relaxin works by simultaneously cutting collagen production and increasing collagen breakdown. MedicinNet.com