Page 96 - Consciousness in the Cell

CONSCIOUSNESS IN THE CELL

THE SOURCE OF LABOR PAINS AND BREAST

MILK: A HORMONE PRODUCED IN THE BRAIN

When the period of pregnancy is complete, the abrupt begin-
ning of labor pains herald the start of a new life. A hormone called
oxytocin initiates labor and sends the first indication of this
impending event.
This hormone, released by the pituitary gland, has its effect in
two main sites: on the muscles of the mother's uterus, and on the
muscle cells that eject milk into the ducts of the breasts.
The increased contraction of the uterus is of utmost importance
in ensuring that birth will take place safely for both mother and
infant. This hormone facilitates the strong contractions of the mus-
cles of the uterus—but does so only after nine months and ten
days have passed since conception. Either earlier or later could
put the baby's life in danger. When the right time comes, receptors
in the uterus send signals to the brain. On receiving this signal the
brain produces oxytocin, just the right molecule, and sends it to
the target area—those receptors far away.
In addition to all this, oxytocin has another separate function,
facilitating the nourishment of the baby just arrived to the world
by secreting a supply of milk.
Consider:
How do cells in a tiny part of the mother's brain decide to pro-
duce a hormone that makes childbirth easy for the womb to per-
form?
How can this hormone find its way through the whole circula-
tory system, to the exact cells where it is needed?
Who possesses the knowledge that the baby needs to develop
and mature for nine months and ten days in the mother's womb,
and begins the mechanism of labor at just the right point?

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