04 - MIDTERM - lec Flashcards
Physiological Changes Women Experiences During Lactation (58 cards)
Hormonal Changes
Prolactin
Oxytocin
Estrogen and Progesterone
This hormone increases significantly during pregnancy and continues to play a critical role during lactation. It stimulates milk production in the mammary glands.
Prolactin
Released in response to suckling, triggers the “let-down” reflex, facilitating the release of milk from the mammary glands. It also promotes uterine contractions, which can help the uterus return to its pre-pregnancy size.
Oxytocin
Levels of these hormones decrease after childbirth, allowing prolactin to take effect and promoting lactation.
Estrogen and Progesterone
The breasts undergo extensive development during pregnancy, preparing for milk production. There is an increase in the number of milk-secreting alveoli and ductal structures.
Mammary Gland Development
Breast Changes
Mammary Gland Development
Increased Blood Flow
Nipple Changes
Functional Units of Mammary Gland
Alveoli
Secretory Cells
Myoepithelial cells
A rounded or oblong-shaped cavity present in the breast. Composed of a cluster of cells (secretory cells) with a duct in the center, whose job is to secrete milk.
Alveoli
Cells in the acinus (milk gland) that are responsible for secreting milk components into the ducts.
Secretory Cells
Specialized cells that line the alveoli and that can contract to cause milk to be secreted into the duct. Cells that surround the secretory cells.
Myoepithelial cells
This stage begins during pregnancy, typically around the second trimester. In this phase, the mammary glands prepare for milk production.
Stage 1
This stage occurs after childbirth, typically around 30 to 72 hours postpartum.
Stage II
The letdown reflex is primarily controlled by the hormone oxytocin.
Hormonal Control
The letdown reflex can also be triggered by physical cues such as the sound of a baby crying or even thinking about a baby.
Physical Cues
Lactating women typically need an additional 300-500 calories per day to support milk production
Increased Caloric Needs
The letdown may happen several times during a feeding session as the baby suckles, and it can sometimes be felt as a tingling sensation in the breasts.
Timing
Metabolic Changes
Increased Caloric Needs
Nutrient Utilization
Fat Mobilization
The body may utilize fat stores developed during pregnancy for energy, which can help in postpartum weight loss.
Fat Mobilization
There is a higher demand for certain nutrients, including calcium, vitamin D, and protein, to support both the mother’s health and milk quality.
Nutrient Utilization
Immune System Adjustments
Antibody Production
Maternal Adjustments
Changes in Psychological and Emotional State
Mood Flactuations
Bonding
The release of oxytocin during breastfeeding promotes strong maternal-infant bonding.
Bonding
Physical Changes
Body Composition
Uterine Contraction
Hormonal changes can lead to shifts in body weight and fat distribution.
Body Composition