Human papilloma

Human milk is the milk produced by the mammary glands of a human female for her infant. The process of milk production is known as lactation. Human milk is the primary source of nutrition for newborns, containing fat, protein, carbohydrate and variable minerals and vitamins.

Composition

Human milk contains a unique balance of nutrients, perfectly suited to the infant, and varies from mother to mother, and from day to day, to meet the changing needs of the growing infant. It contains proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, minerals, digestive enzymes, and hormones. Human milk also contains immune molecules which are important for protection against infections and inflammation, and for development of the infant's immune system.

Benefits

Human milk provides numerous health benefits to both the mother and infant. For the infant, it provides all the necessary nutrients in the proper proportions, protects against allergies, sickness, and obesity, promotes healthy growth and development, and can help to prevent Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and diabetes. For the mother, breastfeeding can help to reduce the risk of breast cancer, ovarian cancer, and postpartum depression.

Production

The production of human milk is a complex process that is influenced by many factors. These include the mother's health, diet, and stress level, as well as the infant's demand. The production process begins during pregnancy, with the maturation of the mammary glands in preparation for lactation. After birth, the production of milk is stimulated by the hormone prolactin, while the release of milk, known as the let-down reflex, is stimulated by the hormone oxytocin.

Storage and Use

Human milk can be expressed and stored for later use. It should be stored in clean containers, and can be kept at room temperature for a few hours, in the refrigerator for a few days, or in the freezer for several months. Thawed milk should be used within 24 hours and never refrozen.

See Also

• Breastfeeding
• Infant formula
• Lactation
• Mammary gland