Which of the following endocrine glands is responsible for the release of hormones which cause uterine contractions during childbirth ?

Options

A. Pineal gland
B. Mammary gland
C. Corpus albicans
D. Pituitary gland

Answer

To solve the question, "Which of the following endocrine glands is responsible for the release of hormones which cause uterine contractions during childbirth?", we can follow these steps:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Identify the Key Hormone**: The question asks about the hormone responsible for uterine contractions during childbirth. The primary hormone known for this function is **oxytocin**.

2. **Determine the Source of Oxytocin**: Oxytocin is produced in the **hypothalamus** but is released into the bloodstream by the **posterior pituitary gland**.

3. **Evaluate the Options**:
- **Pineal Gland**: This gland releases melatonin, which regulates sleep patterns, not uterine contractions.
- **Mammary Gland**: This is an exocrine gland responsible for milk production, not an endocrine gland.
- **Corpus Albicans**: This is a degenerated form of the corpus luteum and does not function as an endocrine gland.
- **Pituitary Gland**: Specifically, the posterior lobe of the pituitary gland releases oxytocin, which is responsible for uterine contractions.

4. **Select the Correct Answer**: Given the analysis, the correct answer is the **Pituitary Gland**.

### Final Answer:
The endocrine gland responsible for the release of hormones that cause uterine contractions during childbirth is the **Pituitary Gland**.

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