MCQ – 97503

Which one of the following statements is correct regarding the physiology of breastfeeding?

A.	Prolactin is responsible for ejection of milk from the glands.
B.	Night feeding is important for maintaining prolactin reflex.
C.	Oxytocin is responsible for milk secretion by the alveolar epithelial cells.
D.	Oxytocin is secreted by the anterior pituitary.

Show Answer

Correct Answer � B Explanation

Physiology of Breastfeeding

The process of breastfeeding involves two key hormones: prolactin and oxytocin, each playing distinct roles.

1. Prolactin:
   • Secreted by the anterior pituitary.
   • Stimulates milk production by the alveolar epithelial cells of the mammary glands.
   • Night feeding stimulates prolactin secretion, maintaining the prolactin reflex, which is critical for continued milk production.
2. Oxytocin:
   • Secreted by the posterior pituitary.
   • Responsible for the milk ejection reflex (let-down reflex) by causing contraction of myoepithelial cells surrounding the alveoli.
   • Stimulated by suckling or emotional stimuli related to the baby.

Analysis of Options

A. Prolactin is responsible for ejection of milk from the glands:

• Incorrect. Prolactin stimulates milk production, not ejection. Milk ejection is mediated by oxytocin.

B. Night feeding is important for maintaining prolactin reflex:

• Correct. Prolactin levels are higher during night feeding, which helps sustain milk production over time.

C. Oxytocin is responsible for milk secretion by the alveolar epithelial cells:

• Incorrect. Oxytocin is responsible for the ejection of milk, not its secretion. Milk secretion is stimulated by prolactin.

D. Oxytocin is secreted by the anterior pituitary:

• Incorrect. Oxytocin is secreted by the posterior pituitary, while prolactin is secreted by the anterior pituitary.