Nutrition for Special Groups

Nutrition for Special Groups 3(3+0)

Lesson 14 : Nutrition for the Lactating Mothers

Role of Hormones

Sucking by infant initiates hormonal changes that lead to milk production and let down reflex, which releases milk.

Suckling by the infant initiates hormonal changes that lead to milk production and the let-down reflex. This reflex releases the milk from storage cells in the breast.

The process of lactation is controlled by various hormones. The source of these hormones and their function is summarised in table. :

Table : Hormonal control of lactation

Hormone	Source	Function
Estrogen	Ovary	Stimulates breast development during pregnancy
Progesterone	Placenta	Stimulates milk production
Prolactin	Anterior pituitary gland	Stimulates milk production
Oxytocin	Posterior pituitary gland	In“let down” reflex: smooth muscles surrounding the alveoli of the nipples contract to allow the release of milk. In pain, emotions or embarrassment the let down reflex may sometimes be inhibited. Mothers doubt about ability to produce enough milk which can also interfere with the “let down” reflex.