A&P of milk production

Question 1

Prolactin

Answer 1

• triggered by suckling
• acts on acini cells to make more milk
• peaks about 90 mins after a feed
• suppresses ovulation
• needs to be stimulated early and frequently to be effective long term

Question 2

Setting up milk production

Answer 2

• delivery of placenta opens prolactin receptor sites on acini cells
• prolactin surges prime sites to begin milk production
• receptor sits start to close if not primed
• skin contact and lots of feeds in early days increase potential for long term milk production

Question 3

Oxytocin

Answer 3

• triggered by suckling and positive thoughts
• acts on the mho-epithelial cells to eject milk
• largest peak occur early in feed
• effect may be felt tingling
• basal levels are higher when baby is near
• can be temporarily inhibited by stress

Question 4

FIL - feedback inhibitor of lactation

Answer 4

• secreted as part of milk
• build up of FIL blocks milk production
• removing FIL allows milk production
• good for baby but important component to stop milk production
• a protein but not for diet

Question 5

Recognising feeding cues

Answer 5

-moving eyes
-wriggling and waving
-rooting
-sucking fists, blanjet etc
-making murmuring noises
CRYING IS LAST RESORT

Question 6

Making breastfeeding work

Answer 6

• keep mother and baby together
• help mothers to recognising feeding cues
• allow unrestricted, frequent feeds
• support mother to breastfeed at night
• avoid supplements
• use dummies with caution