How Breast Milk is Formed in Mammary Glands

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how breast milk is formed in mammary glands

Formation and Physiology of Breast Milk

Breast milk formation begins during pregnancy and is regulated by complex hormonal changes. The mammary glands, located within the breast tissue, are responsible for producing milk.

  1. Hormonal Influence: The production of breast milk, known as lactogenesis, is primarily driven by the hormones prolactin and oxytocin. During pregnancy, estrogen and progesterone prepare the mammary glands for milk production. After childbirth, the levels of these hormones decrease, allowing prolactin to stimulate the alveoli in the mammary glands to produce milk.
  2. Milk Secretion: The alveoli, small sac-like structures within the mammary glands, are lined with milk-producing cells. Once prolactin stimulates these cells, they begin to synthesize and secrete milk. Oxytocin, released in response to the baby sucking at the breast, causes the myoepithelial cells surrounding the alveoli to contract, pushing the milk through the ducts toward the nipple.
  3. Milk Ejection Reflex: This reflex, also known as the let-down reflex, involves the release of oxytocin, which facilitates the flow of milk from the alveoli to the nipple, allowing the infant to feed.

2030 National Health Goals Related to Newborn Nutrition

  1. Increase the proportion of infants who are breastfed exclusively through age 6 months (MICH-15): The goal is to ensure more infants receive exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life. Exclusive breastfeeding is recommended because breast milk provides all the necessary nutrients an infant needs during this period and supports optimal growth and development.
  2. Increase the proportion of infants who are breastfed at 1 year (MICH-16): This goal emphasizes the importance of continued breastfeeding along with appropriate complementary foods after the first six months and through at least one year. Prolonged breastfeeding supports ongoing nutritional needs and offers continued immunological protection.

Advantages of Breastfeeding Related to Immunities

Breast milk is rich in antibodies, particularly Immunoglobulin A (IgA), which protects the newborn from infections by coating the mucous membranes in the digestive tract, respiratory system, and other parts of the body. Breastfeeding also helps the baby develop a stronger immune system overall, reducing the risk of illnesses like respiratory infections, ear infections, and gastrointestinal disturbances.

Additional Benefits of Breastfeeding

  1. Nutritional Excellence: Breast milk contains the ideal balance of nutrients, including proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals, tailored specifically to an infant’s developmental needs. This promotes healthy growth and cognitive development.
  2. Bonding and Emotional Benefits: Breastfeeding fosters a close bond between mother and child, releasing oxytocin in the mother, which promotes feelings of relaxation and attachment. This bonding is beneficial for the infant’s emotional and social development.
  3. Long-term Health Benefits: Breastfeeding has been linked to long-term health benefits for both mother and baby. For the baby, it reduces the risk of chronic conditions like obesity, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers. For the mother, breastfeeding can lower the risk of breast and ovarian cancers and aid in postpartum weight loss.
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