While prolactin is essential for initiating and maintaining lactation, oxytocin is keyed more closely to milk ejection. Oxytocin receptor sites in the breast gradually increase by 10 fold in pregnancy. Just before delivery the number of oxytocin receptor sites in the uterus increase dramatically and then suddenly disappear after the birth. Oxytocin is taken up by the uterus first to facilitate delivery, prevent postpartum hemorrhage by uterine contraction and then cause milk ejection. The nipple becomes more sensitive to tactile stimulation in the 24 hours following birth. Stretch receptors in the nipple stimulate the release of oxytocin from the posterior pituitary. Oxytocin causes the let-down reflex or milk ejection response.
#iamstillawoman #milk #feeding #oxytocin
#iamstillawoman #milk #feeding #oxytocin
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