Production, secretion, and ejection of milk requires the synergistic effects of prolactin and

Options

A. Estrogen
B. Progesterone
C. Oxytocin
D. All of these

Answer

To answer the question regarding the production, secretion, and ejection of milk, we need to analyze the roles of the hormones involved, particularly prolactin and another hormone that works synergistically with it.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Prolactin**:
- Prolactin is a hormone produced by the anterior pituitary gland. Its primary role is to stimulate the production of milk in the mammary glands after childbirth.

2. **Identifying the Synergistic Hormone**:
- While prolactin is crucial for milk production, the ejection of milk requires the action of another hormone. This is where we need to consider the other hormones involved in lactation.

3. **Role of Estrogen**:
- Estrogen is known to stimulate the growth and differentiation of the milk duct system in the mammary glands. This prepares the ducts for the transport of milk during ejection.

4. **Role of Progesterone**:
- Progesterone also plays a significant role in the growth and differentiation of the mammary gland structures. It works alongside estrogen to ensure that the mammary glands are fully developed for milk production.

5. **Role of Oxytocin**:
- Oxytocin is crucial for the ejection of milk. It causes the contraction of smooth muscle cells in the mammary glands, facilitating the release of milk during breastfeeding.

6. **Conclusion**:
- Therefore, the production, secretion, and ejection of milk require the synergistic effects of prolactin and oxytocin. While estrogen and progesterone contribute to the development of the mammary glands, oxytocin is specifically responsible for the ejection of milk.

### Final Answer:
The production, secretion, and ejection of milk require the synergistic effects of prolactin and **oxytocin**.

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