Question
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 |
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Physiology of Breastfeeding
The process of breastfeeding involves two key hormones: prolactin and oxytocin, each playing distinct roles.
-
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.
-
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.