Lactation

Definition

Lactation is the biological process by which mammals, including humans, produce milk to feed their young. This process occurs in the mammary glands and is regulated by hormonal changes throughout pregnancy and after childbirth.

Related terms

Mammary Glands:

Specialized organs in mammals that produce milk for feeding offspring.

Prolactin:

A hormone produced by the anterior pituitary gland that stimulates milk production during lactation.

Oxytocin:

A hormone involved in several processes, including triggering the milk ejection reflex during lactation