Which hormone stimulates milk production in the breast?
A Prolactin
B Endometrilin
C Mammocyn
D Estrogen
The correct answer and explanation is:
Correct Answer: A. Prolactin
Explanation:
Milk production in the breast is primarily stimulated by the hormone prolactin. Prolactin is produced and secreted by the anterior pituitary gland, a small gland located at the base of the brain. Its main function in lactation is to stimulate the mammary glands in the breasts to produce milk after childbirth.
During pregnancy, estrogen and progesterone levels are high, which help in the development of the milk ducts and lobules in the breast. However, these hormones also inhibit the action of prolactin. Once the baby is born and the placenta is delivered, estrogen and progesterone levels drop significantly. This sudden decrease removes the inhibition, allowing prolactin to start acting on the breast tissue.
When an infant suckles at the breast, it sends signals to the hypothalamus in the brain, which prompts the pituitary gland to release even more prolactin. This process is called a neuroendocrine reflex, ensuring a continuous milk supply based on the baby’s needs. Prolactin ensures that milk is produced and ready for the next feeding.
It’s important to note that while prolactin stimulates milk production, the actual release or ejection of milk from the breast is controlled by another hormone called oxytocin.
Let’s briefly look at the incorrect options:
- B. Endometrilin – This is not a recognized hormone related to lactation or breast function.
- C. Mammocyn – This is not a scientifically recognized hormone; it may be a distractor.
- D. Estrogen – While estrogen helps in the development of breast tissue during pregnancy, it does not stimulate milk production. In fact, high levels of estrogen suppress prolactin’s milk-producing effects.
Summary:
Prolactin is the hormone responsible for stimulating milk production in the breast following childbirth, making Option A the correct answer.