relaxin

views updated May 17 2018

relaxin A mammalian hormone produced by the corpus luteum and placenta during the terminal stages of pregnancy. It relaxes the pubic symphysis and dilates the cervix of the uterus, thereby aiding parturition.

relaxin

views updated May 09 2018

relaxin (ri-laks-in) n. a hormone, secreted by the placenta in the terminal stages of pregnancy, that causes the cervix of the uterus to dilate and prepares the uterus for the action of oxytocin during labour.

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