Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Mammary glands are specialized organs in mammals responsible for producing and secreting milk to nourish newborns. They are part of the reproductive system and undergo significant changes during pregnancy and lactation.
Related terms
Lactation: The process by which mammary glands produce and secrete milk following childbirth.
A hormone that plays a key role in the development of secondary sexual characteristics and the regulation of the menstrual cycle; it also prepares the mammary glands for milk production.