Lactation

Lactation refers to the process by which mammals produce milk from the mammary glands to feed their young. This process is regulated by the hormones prolactin and oxytocin.

Physiology of Lactation

Lactation involves several stages, including the generation of colostrum during pregnancy, the initiation of milk production after birth, and the maintenance of milk production for as long as the young is nursing.

Colostrum

Colostrum is the first form of milk produced by the mammary glands. It is rich in antibodies and helps to protect the newborn against disease.

Initiation of Milk Production

The initiation of milk production is triggered by the drop in progesterone levels following birth. This allows prolactin to stimulate the mammary glands to produce milk.

Maintenance of Milk Production

The maintenance of milk production is regulated by the hormone oxytocin, which stimulates the release of milk from the mammary glands in response to the baby's suckling.

Role of Hormones in Lactation

The hormones prolactin and oxytocin play key roles in lactation. Prolactin stimulates the mammary glands to produce milk, while oxytocin triggers the release of milk.

Lactation in Humans

In humans, lactation typically begins during pregnancy and continues for as long as the baby is nursing. The milk produced by humans is specifically tailored to meet the nutritional needs of human infants.

See Also

• Breastfeeding
• Mammary gland
• Milk
• Prolactin
• Oxytocin

Lactation Resources
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