Prolactin stimulates milk production and oxytocin triggers milk let-down.
Oestrogen and progesterone build mammary ducts; after birth falling progesterone allows prolactin to trigger milk synthesis. Suckling stimulates oxytocin reflex. Colostrum is rich in antibodies.
Milk composition changes over time. Breast milk supplies antibodies and nutrients. Suckling drives prolactin and oxytocin release.
Example: milk let-down can be triggered by a baby's cry.
Prolactin stimulates milk production and oxytocin triggers milk let-down.
Lactation is one of the 54 topics in Reproduction & Endocrinology. It is rated Intermediate, so it suits learners who already know the core vocabulary. Related topics in this area include Parturition, Zona Pellucida and Egg Activation, Pregnancy Hormones.
Breastfeeding may suppress ovulation by inhibiting GnRH.
Work through the Beginner topics in Reproduction & Endocrinology first, such as Reproduction, Asexual Reproduction, Sexual Reproduction, then return to Lactation. Intermediate topics assume the Beginner vocabulary.
The closest topics to Lactation are Parturition, Zona Pellucida and Egg Activation, Pregnancy Hormones, Positive Feedback. Comparing them side by side is a good way to see how the ideas connect.
Read the summary and the in-depth section, then use the quick check on the interactive lesson for Lactation. To practise the whole of Reproduction & Endocrinology, use the Reproduction & Endocrinology quiz.
Lactation: Prolactin stimulates milk production and oxytocin triggers milk let-down. Parturition: Positive feedback between oxytocin and uterine contractions drives childbirth. Read both side by side and note what each one explains.
First, read the summary and write the definition in your own words. Second, read the in-depth section and note any example. Third, compare it with Parturition and explain the difference aloud. Finally, take the Reproduction & Endocrinology quiz and come back to this page for any question you miss.
Positive feedback between oxytocin and uterine contractions drives childbirth.
🌸 Reproduction & EndocrinologyEgg coat proteins bind sperm and calcium waves activate development after fusion.
🌸 Reproduction & EndocrinologyhCG maintains the corpus luteum early on, then the placenta produces progesterone and oestrogen.
🌸 Reproduction & EndocrinologyAn effect amplifies its own cause, as in labour contractions and the LH surge.
🌸 Reproduction & Endocrinology