After a mother delivers her child and the placenta, there is a steep fall in her hormone levels. This inherently causes her body to increase the synthesis of the hormone prolactin (which is the ‘pro’ lactation hormone). This stimulates the alveolar epithelial cells of the breast, activating milk production! Periodic infant suckling leads to further release of prolactin and oxytocin, which stimulate myoepithelial cell contraction and milk ejection (formally known as the ‘let-down reflex’). Early breast milk (milk that is produced in the first postpartum week) is known as colostrum. Colostrum contains protein, fat, secretory immunoglobulin A (IgA), and minerals. The high IgA levels in colostrum are essentially immune cells that will provide passive immunity for the infant and protect the baby against enteric bacteria! After about one week postpartum, ‘mature milk’ with protein, fat, lactose, and water is produced. It is interesting to note that the contents of breast milk evolves and changes along with the baby! This is part of the reason why the CDC and the American Academy of Pediatrics recommend breastfeeding. Other potential benefits of breastfeeding include a lower incidence of allergies, upper respiratory infections and GI infections in the baby and maternal weight loss!
For more, click on the link to watch our YouTube episode on “The Truth about Breastfeeding“:
Written by Student Doctor: Navpreet Singh Badesha ©06/05/2017 All Rights Reserved.
Photo found on: @milky_express on Instagram
*DISCLAIMER*: We understand that breastfeeding is not always an option for some mothers and that formula serves as a great alternative. The intent of this post is to encourage breastfeeding due to its numerous benefits! It is NOT our intent to single out or to offend those who may not have been able to breastfeed. Each life is beautiful in its own way!
