Estrogen - to - progesterone ratio towards the end of pregnancy

Options

A. increases
B. decreases
C. remains same
D. 1 or 2

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Hormonal Changes in Pregnancy:**
- During pregnancy, the levels of various hormones fluctuate to support the development of the fetus and prepare the mother for childbirth.

2. **Role of Estrogen and Progesterone:**
- Estrogen and progesterone are two key hormones involved in pregnancy. Estrogen is responsible for the growth of the uterine lining and mammary glands, while progesterone helps maintain the pregnancy by preventing uterine contractions.

3. **End of Pregnancy:**
- As pregnancy approaches its end, particularly during the third trimester, the body prepares for parturition (childbirth). This preparation involves changes in hormone levels.

4. **Ratio of Estrogen to Progesterone:**
- Towards the end of pregnancy, the ratio of estrogen to progesterone increases. This increase is crucial as it helps in the development of the mammary glands for lactation and prepares the body for labor.

5. **Significance of Increased Estrogen:**
- The rise in estrogen levels towards the end of pregnancy is important for stimulating the production of colostrum, the first form of milk that is rich in antibodies and essential for the newborn's immune system.

6. **Conclusion:**
- Therefore, the estrogen to progesterone ratio increases towards the end of pregnancy, facilitating the necessary physiological changes for childbirth and lactation.