Chapter Six – Lactation

What structures are responsible for milk production in the mammary gland?

Alveoli, secretory cells, and myoepithelial cells.

Alveoli

Rounded or oblong-shaped cavities where milk is produced.

Secretory Cells

Cells responsible for milk secretion.

Myoepithelial Cells

Surround the secretory cells and help eject milk into the ducts.

What is the process of milk formation beginning in late pregnancy called?

Lactogenesis I

When does Lactogenesis II occur?

2-5 days postpartum.

What hormone is responsible for milk ejection?

Oxytocin.

What is colostrum often referred to as?

Liquid Gold.

What nutrient in human milk provides ~50% of its calories?

Lipids.

What are the two types of milk produced during breastfeeding referred to as?

Foremilk and hindmilk.

What is the dominant carbohydrate in human milk?

Lactose.

Which vitamin is low in breast milk and is recommended for supplementation?

Vitamin D.

What is the primary protein type in human milk that facilitates calcium absorption?

Casein.

Which component in colostrum helps with immune protection?

Secretory IgA.

What do breastfed infants have a reduced risk of developing?

SIDS, gastrointestinal infections, and asthma.

What effect does breastfeeding have on maternal hormone levels post-delivery?

Increased oxytocin helps the uterus contract.

How does a mother's diet influence her breast milk?

It influences the taste, exposing infants to varied flavors.

What is a common sign that an infant is hungry?

Hand-to-mouth movements and sucking.

What is the typical weight loss percentage for newborns in the first 5 days?

Up to 7%.

What is the recommended frequency of breastfeeding for newborns?

10-12 feedings per day.

What are the signs of adequate intake in infants?

6 wet diapers and 3-4 soiled diapers per day.

What is the recommended first intervention for dental care after the first tooth erupts?

Dental check-ups are recommended.

What form of iron supplementation is important for infants after 4-6 months?

Iron.

What specific nutrient needs are increased for breastfeeding mothers?

Caloric and protein needs.

How much additional energy do nursing mothers need in the first 6 months?

Additional 500 kcal/day.

What is the impact of protein-calorie malnutrition on breast milk?

Affects volume but not the quality of milk.

Which nutrient might vegan mothers need to supplement?

Vitamin B12.

What does MyPlate and dietary guidelines for breastfeeding emphasize?

Balanced nutrition and adequate hydration.

What program provides support for breastfeeding mothers?

WIC (Women, Infants, and Children) program.

What is the effect of breastfeeding on cognitive development in infants?

Higher IQ scores.

What are the immune factors found in human milk?

Lactoferrin and secretory IgA.

What is the role of oligosaccharides in human milk?

Promote growth of beneficial gut bacteria.

What is the concentration of minerals in human milk compared to cow’s milk?

Lower concentration, reducing strain on infant kidneys.

What are some of the psychological benefits of breastfeeding for mothers?

Enhanced bonding and reduced stress.

How does lactogenesis progress postpartum?

Lactogenesis I leads to Lactogenesis II, then Lactogenesis III.

Casein

The primary protein type in human milk that facilitates calcium absorption, essential for an infant's growth.

Foremilk

The milk that is produced at the beginning of a breastfeeding session, lower in fat content.

Hindmilk

The milk that is produced later in a breastfeeding session, richer in fat and calories.

Vitamin D

A vitamin that is low in breast milk; supplementation is recommended to prevent deficiencies in breastfed infants.

What are the signs of inadequate intake in infants?

Fewer than 6 wet diapers and fewer than 3-4 soiled diapers per day.

What is the role of myoepithelial cells in lactation?

They surround secretory cells and help eject milk into the ducts during breastfeeding.

What is a common initial weight loss percentage for newborns?

Up to 7% of their birth weight in the first 5 days.

What impact does maternal diet have on breast milk?

It influences the taste of breast milk, exposing infants to a variety of flavors.

WIC Program

The Women, Infants, and Children program that provides nutritional support and information for breastfeeding mothers.