The 'Hormone Prolactin' is secreted by the anterior pituitary gland. Its primary physiological role is to: MCQ with Answer and Explanation

Prolactin (PRL) is a peptide hormone secreted by the lactotroph cells of the anterior pituitary gland. Its primary and namesake function is to stimulate the development of the mammary glands during pregnancy and to initiate and maintain the production of milk (lactogenesis) after childbirth. While prolactin levels rise significantly during pregnancy, the high levels of estrogen and progesterone inhibit actual milk secretion until after delivery. Suckling by the infant is the primary stimulus for continued prolactin release.