Positive Feedback in Homeostasis Diagram
Here’s how positive feedback loop occurs during labor:
- Nerve Impulse from Cervix Transmitted to Brain – As the baby descends and puts pressure on the cervix (the opening of the uterus), the cervix sends nerve impulses to the brain. Think of these impulses like messages telling the brain that labor has begun.
- Brain Stimulates Pituitary Gland to Secrete Oxytocin – Receiving the nerve impulses, the brain sends signals to the pituitary gland, a tiny gland located at the base of the brain. In response, the pituitary gland releases a hormone called oxytocin. You can think of oxytocin as a natural chemical messenger that helps your body progress through labor.
- Oxytocin Carried in Bloodstream to Uterus – Once released, oxytocin travels through the bloodstream and reaches the uterus. Imagine it like a tiny runner carrying an important message.
- Oxytocin Stimulates Uterine Contractions and Pushes Baby Toward Cervix – When it reaches the uterus, oxytocin binds to receptors on muscle cells in the uterine wall. This triggers the muscles to contract, which squeezes the baby downwards towards the cervix. Think of the contractions like strong waves pushing the baby towards the birth canal.
- Head of the Baby Pushes Against Cervix: As the baby descends further and presses harder on the cervix, it sends even stronger nerve impulses back to the brain. This completes the loop.
