9.1c Anatomy and Physiology of Lactation Flashcards
1
Q
Anatomy of Lactation
A
- Alveoli is the milk producing cells
- 2:1 ratio of glandular to adipose tissue (1:1 in non-lactating mothers)
- Size and shape of breast is not accurate indicator of milk production
- Colostrum is prepartum milk
- Sebaceous glands protect nipple from mechanical stress of sucking and pathogens
2
Q
Lactogenesis
A
- Fall of progesterone stimulates release of prolactin from anterior pituitary
- Prolactin is highest in the first 10 days of birth
- Prolactin is produced in response to infant suckling (supply-meets-demand)
- Oxytocin - Important in milk ejection reflex (MER) or “Let down reflex”
- MER is triggered by suckling or sights, sounds, odors that mom associates with baby (baby cry)
- “pins and needles” feeling as milk is ejected
- Oxytocin is also released during orgasm
- Fear, Stress, Alcohol can inhibit MER
3
Q
AfterPains
A
- Uterine contractions that occur with breastfeeding are painful during first 3-5 days
- Afterpains are more common in multiparous women and resolve in 1 week
4
Q
Mothering Hormones
A
- Prolactin and Oxytocin
- Affect mothers emotions and physical state in postpartum women
- Women may feel thirsty and relaxed during breastfeeding
- Nipple-Erection Reflex is important for breastfeeding for effective latch
5
Q
Human Milk
A
- Ideal food for infants
- Composition changes to meet nutritional and immunologic needs of growing infant
(Milk of pre-term mother is different from milk of term mother due to different nutritional needs) - Contains immunologic protection
- Promotes colonization of intestinal bacteria
6
Q
Lactogenesis Stage 1
A
- Begins at 16-18 weeks of pregnancy
- Starts producing colostrum
7
Q
Lactogenesis Stage 2
A
- Begins with birth as progesterone drops and placenta is removed
- First 2-3 days is colostrum
(Clear, yellow liquid with antibodies, high protein, low fat)
(High protein helps binding of bilirubin)
(Laxative properties to excrete first meconium)
(Establishes Lactobacillus Bifidus - GI Flora)
8
Q
Lactogenesis Stage 3
A
- Transitional Milk (3-5 days)
- Transition from colostrum to normal milk
- Milk is fully mature by 10 days
9
Q
Composition of Breastmilk
A
- Changes over time as infant grows and develops
- Fat is the most variable component of breastmilk (gradually increases after each feeding)
GROWTH SPURTS - 10 days, 3 weeks, 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months
- More frequent feedings required lasts about 24-48 hours