11.) Care for mammary glands. Technique of breast feeding lactogenesis Flashcards
What hormonal changes occur in the breast during pregnancy to prepare for lactation?
Estrogen and progesterone levels rise significantly, stimulating the development of ducts, lobules, and alveoli for milk production.
How does prolactin function in lactation, and when does it become active?
Prolactin, released by the anterior pituitary gland after delivery, stimulates milk production in the alveoli and is activated by the decrease in progesterone after the placenta is delivered.
What role does oxytocin play in breastfeeding?
Oxytocin, released in response to nipple stimulation, causes the milk ejection reflex (let-down) by contracting smooth muscle cells around the alveoli.
What is lactogenesis, and what are its phases?
Lactogenesis is the process of initiating milk production, with Phase I beginning in late pregnancy (colostrum production) and Phase II starting about 3 days postpartum, marked by increased milk volume.
Describe the composition and importance of colostrum.
Colostrum is a thick, yellow fluid high in carbohydrates, proteins (including antibodies like IgA), and low in fat. It supports infant immunity, gut maturation, and is produced in small amounts around birth.
What is the daily average milk production during the first few months of breastfeeding?
During the first 4 months, milk production is typically around 800-1000 ml per day, adjusting according to demand.
How frequently should breastfeeding occur?
Between 8-12 times in 24 hours
Explain the concept of “Kangaroo care” and its benefits in breastfeeding.
Kangaroo care involves skin-to-skin contact between the parent and baby, promoting early bonding, regulating the baby’s temperature, and encouraging early breastfeeding within the first 2 hours after birth.
What are effective breastfeeding positions, and why are they important?
Effective positions like the cradle hold, cross-cradle hold, side-lying, football hold, and laid-back position ensure proper latching, comfort, and optimal milk flow.
Why is proper latching important, and what are signs of a good latch?
Proper latching prevents nipple pain and maximizes milk transfer. Signs include the baby’s mouth covering most of the areola, lips flanged outward, and a comfortable sucking pattern.
What is breastfeeding jaundice, and how can it be managed?
Breastfeeding jaundice may occur if insufficient feeding causes bilirubin build-up. if needed, phototherapy, help make bilirubin water-soluble for easier elimination.
What are best practices for mammary gland hygiene and care during breastfeeding?
Wash breasts with warm water (avoid soap), wear a supportive nursing bra, change nursing pads regularly, and maintain clean hands to prevent infections.
How does frequent milk removal (feeding or pumping) support lactation?
Regular milk removal stimulates further milk production, helps prevent engorgement, and reduces the risk of bacterial infection from milk build-up in the glands.
What is lactopoiesis, and how does it differ from lactogenesis?
Lactogenesis = Starting milk production (begins during pregnancy and becomes active after birth).
Lactopoiesis = Continuing milk production (sustained by prolactin and regular milk removal).
How do estrogen and progesterone specifically contribute to breast tissue changes during pregnancy?
Estrogen supports ductal development, while progesterone stimulates the growth of lobules and alveolar expansion in preparation for milk production.
What environmental and physical factors can stimulate oxytocin release and milk ejection?
Breast/nipple stimulation, skin-to-skin contact, and even hearing a baby cry can trigger oxytocin release, facilitating milk let-down.
