Which of the following hormones when injected intravenously can induce abortion?

Options

A. Progesterone
B. Oxytocin
C. Prolactin
D. Oestrogen

Answer

To determine which hormone, when injected intravenously, can induce abortion, we can analyze the given options one by one:

1. **Progesterone**:
- Progesterone is a hormone essential for maintaining pregnancy. It plays a crucial role in the implantation of the embryo in the uterus and helps maintain the uterine lining. Low levels of progesterone can lead to miscarriage, but injecting progesterone would not induce abortion. Instead, it would support the continuation of pregnancy.
- **Conclusion**: Incorrect option.

2. **Oxytocin**:
- Oxytocin is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland and is known for its role in childbirth. It stimulates uterine contractions and helps in the delivery process. When injected intravenously, oxytocin can induce contractions that may lead to the expulsion of the fetus from the womb, effectively inducing abortion.
- **Conclusion**: Correct option.

3. **Prolactin**:
- Prolactin is primarily involved in milk production and secretion in nursing mothers. Its levels increase during pregnancy and after childbirth, but it does not have a role in inducing abortion.
- **Conclusion**: Incorrect option.

4. **Estrogen**:
- Estrogen is a key female sex hormone that regulates the menstrual cycle and is involved in ovulation. While it plays a role in reproductive health, it does not induce abortion when injected intravenously.
- **Conclusion**: Incorrect option.

**Final Answer**: The hormone that can induce abortion when injected intravenously is **Oxytocin**.