What are the biochemicals produced in puberty?
During puberty, the body produces several crucial biochemicals that lead to the development of secondary sexual characteristics and reproductive maturity. These biochemicals include:
1. Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone (GnRH): Produced by the hypothalamus, GnRH stimulates the pituitary gland to release follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH).
2. FSH (Follicle-Stimulating Hormone) and LH (Luteinizing Hormone): FSH, produced by the pituitary gland, stimulates the growth and development of follicles in females and sperm production in males. LH triggers ovulation in females and testosterone production in males.
3. Estrogens (Estradiol, Estrone, Estriol): Primarily produced by the ovaries in females, estrogens are responsible for the development of female secondary sexual characteristics such as breast development, widening of hips, and regulation of the menstrual cycle.
4. Progesterone: Primarily produced by the corpus luteum during the second half of the menstrual cycle and by the placenta during pregnancy, progesterone prepares the uterus for implantation and maintenance of the pregnancy.
5. Testosterone: Produced by the testes in males, testosterone is responsible for the development of male secondary sexual characteristics such as muscle growth, deepening of the voice, and growth of facial and body hair.
6. Inhibin: Produced by the ovaries and testes, inhibin regulates the production of FSH by providing negative feedback to the pituitary gland.
7. Activin: Also produced by the ovaries and testes, activin promotes the production of FSH and stimulates the growth of follicles.
8. Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG): Produced by the developing embryo after implantation, hCG maintains the corpus luteum and stimulates progesterone production during early pregnancy.
9. Relaxin: Produced by the ovaries, uterus, and placenta during pregnancy, relaxin relaxes the uterine muscles and softens the cervix to prepare for labor.
These biochemicals work in a complex interplay, triggering physical changes, sexual maturation, and the ability to reproduce during puberty.