Breast Anatomy and Lactation Flashcards
(32 cards)
What do mammary glands produce and what type of gland are they?
They are classified as exocrine glands because they excrete milk.Modified apocrine sweat glands that produce milk.
What is ductal morphogenesis?
The development of ductal structures during puberty
What is alveologenesis?
The formation of alveoli during pregnancy
What is contained within a lobe of the breast?
Alveoli, ducts, blood vessels
Lobes are crucial for lactation.
How many lobes are typically in a lactating breast?
15-20 lobes
What role does fat play in the structure of the lactating breast?
Provides a protective barrier
What is the terminal duct lobular unit (TDLU)?
Lobule + terminal duct
What is the function of myoepithelial cells?
Contractile cells that help in milk ejection
What hormonal changes occur after placental delivery?
Decrease in progesterone and estrogen allows lactogenesis to start
What does oxytocin do during lactation?
Causes contraction of myoepithelial cells to squeeze milk into ducts
Where is prolactin released from and what causes this?
Signals from the hypothalamus tell anterior pituitary to release prolactin
When are prolactin levels typically higher?
At night
What are the stages of milk production?
- Colostrum (1-2 days post birth)
- Transitional (days 2-5)
- Mature Milk (day 6+)
What characterizes colostrum?
Yellow, thick fluid, rich in IgA antibodies. Provides immunity and has less lactose.
What are the types and composition of mature milk?
- Foremilk: watery, high in protein and lactose, low fat
- Hindmilk: richer in fat, satisfies hunger
List components of human milk.
- Lactose
- Milk fat
- Protein
- Minerals
- Vitamins
- Metabolic hormones
- 87% water
What are some advantages of breast milk over formula?
- Better absorption of fat and iron
- Easier metabolism of amino acids
- Immune components
- Probiotic effects
- Lower risk of asthma, T1DM, food allergies, and obesity
- Reduces risk of SIDS
What are long-term benefits of breastfeeding?
- Reduced risk of chronic non-communicable diseases
- Lower risk of necrotising enterocolitis
- Less likelihood of obesity and endometriosis
- Decreased risk of developing inherited diseases
How does breastfeeding affect the mother?
- Reduces blood loss after delivery
- Lowers risk of postpartum depression
- Decreases risk of breast cancer, CVD, and RA
What dietary considerations should breastfeeding mothers keep in mind?
Different foods can influence milk composition and flavour, ensure adequate B12 if vegan/vegetarian to prevent malnutrition of baby
What are common problems with lactation?
- Infant failure to thrive
- Inadequate milk production
- Poor suckling/latching
- Sore nipples
- Breast engorgement
- Plugged ducts
What is mastitis?
Infection in breast tissue characterized by swelling and inflammation
What are common causes of mastitis?
- Breast engorgement
- Blocked ducts
- Fatigue
- Illness
- Infrequent feeding
What is a breast abscess?
A rare complication of chronic mastitis that may require drainage
