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Nipple Care : Breastfeeding
Hormones are important in the preparation of the breast
for breastfeeding, and also for the initial trigger of milk
production. Of these hormones, prolactin is responsible for activating
the milk making tissue. During pregnancy,
prolactin levels peak in the second trimester, although the effect is
masked by the progesterone hormone produced by the placenta. Following
the birth of a child, the placenta is delivered, and the progesterone
levels drop in 2 – 3 days. The high levels of prolactin can then
activate milk production. The other hormone, Oxytocin causes the
breast to push out or release the milk already there. This release is
commonly called the let-down reflex.
The initial fluid produced by the women’s breasts is Colostrum, a
creamy – yellowish substance with a syrupy consistency. Colostrum
consists of more nutrients, vitamins and antibodies than mature breast
milk. Babies thrive on Colostrum until the mature milk comes in,
usually 2 – 5 days after birth. |
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Information sheets
Blissful Bs of Breastfeeding
Handy Tips for Breastfeeding
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