Question
What stimulates milk production in the breast?
Answers
GPT-4o mini
Milk production in the breast is primarily stimulated by two hormones: prolactin and oxytocin.
1. **Prolactin**: This hormone is produced by the pituitary gland in response to breastfeeding or the anticipation of breastfeeding. Prolactin stimulates the mammary glands to produce milk.
2. **Oxytocin**: Also produced by the pituitary gland, oxytocin plays a key role in the milk ejection reflex, also known as let-down. When a baby suckles at the breast, oxytocin is released, causing the muscles around the milk ducts to contract and help push the milk out through the nipple.
Additionally, the physical act of breastfeeding itself, along with skin-to-skin contact with the baby, can enhance the release of these hormones and promote ongoing milk production.
Other factors, such as maternal nutrition, hydration, and overall health, also play a role in supporting milk supply.
1. **Prolactin**: This hormone is produced by the pituitary gland in response to breastfeeding or the anticipation of breastfeeding. Prolactin stimulates the mammary glands to produce milk.
2. **Oxytocin**: Also produced by the pituitary gland, oxytocin plays a key role in the milk ejection reflex, also known as let-down. When a baby suckles at the breast, oxytocin is released, causing the muscles around the milk ducts to contract and help push the milk out through the nipple.
Additionally, the physical act of breastfeeding itself, along with skin-to-skin contact with the baby, can enhance the release of these hormones and promote ongoing milk production.
Other factors, such as maternal nutrition, hydration, and overall health, also play a role in supporting milk supply.