Question

What is the foetal ejection reflex also known as?

Options

• Braxton-Hicks contractions

• The Ferguson Reflex

• Positive feedback mechanism

• Labour pain / uterine contractions triggered by foetal signals

Answer 1

The foetal ejection reflex, also called labour pain, refers to the uterine contractions triggered by signals from the fully developed foetus and placenta. These contractions are initiated when the foetus sends hormonal signals (ACTH from the foetal pituitary and corticosteroids from the foetal adrenal gland) that set the parturition cascade in motion.