Obs and Gynae

Question 1

When the baby suckles on the tit, what is stimulated?

Answer 1

Mechanoreceptors which stimulate the intercostal nerves, which then activates the hypothalamus

Question 2

When the hypothalamus is stimulated by the intercostal muscles, what occurs to cause lactation?

Answer 2

1. suppression of the Prolactin inhibiting neuron, by blocking dopamine - which allows activation of the lactotrophic cells - which then release prolactin from the anterior pituitary.
2. stimulation of hypothalmic paraventricle cells to produce Oxytocin which is then released from the posterior pituitary.

Question 3

What does prolactin do?

Answer 3

Activates the alveolar cells to produce milk

Question 4

What does oxytocin do?

Answer 4

Activates the myoendothelial cells to contract to squeeze the milk

Question 5

What are the hormones which promote the milk production during pregnancy?

Answer 5

1. Human placenta lactogen
2. Progesterone
   * both of these from the placenta
3. Prolactin
   * this is from the anterior pituitary gland

Question 6

In the first week after birth, what substance is produced from the breast that contains very low fat content, but extremely high Immune cells and antibodies?

Answer 6

Colostrum