The question of how breast milk is produced is asked by almost every expectant mother and mother. Because this special nutrient is so important for the baby’s development, its immune system and even its happiness. But how is breast milk really made? Which organ makes breast milk and when does it start to form? You can find the answers to these questions in our article.
When Does Breast Milk Formation Start?
Breast milk, which should be the baby’s only food for the first 6 months , not only nourishes him but also protects him against diseases. This special food is even the key to its happiness, as its digestive system is adapted to breast milk. The formation of breast milk is almost simultaneous with the beginning of pregnancy. This is because a series of hormonal changes that begin during pregnancy result in the production of breast milk. We can explain the journey of breast milk in two stages:
- In mid-pregnancy, the glands of the breast tissue begin to produce most of the lactose and proteins that are the basic building blocks of milk.
- The actual production of breast milk occurs immediately after birth. During this period, i.e. immediately after birth, the milk becomes a biologically rich liquid containing many proteins and lactose, as well as glucose (sugar), immunoglobulins (substances that strengthen the baby’s defense system) and many other substances necessary for the baby’s development and health.
These are Necessary for Breast Milk to Form!
Breast milk is produced by the hormones of pregnancy. The absence of breast milk in a pregnant woman is a very rare case, rare enough to be included in the literature. Therefore, it is unnecessary for the expectant mother to worry about this issue. When the time comes, the milk will be expelled from the ducts. So, what is required for the formation of breast milk?
- Motherhood requires the presence of hormones at the right time and in the right amounts
- The glands and milk ducts in the breast must function properly.
You may also want to take a look at our tips for increasing breast milk.
Which organ makes breast milk?
Many people may answer “breast” to this question. Because milk comes from the breast, the mind wants to establish this logic. However, although breast milk is mobilized through the ducts in the breast, the organ responsible for its production is the brain. Three hormones are very important in breast milk production:
- hy pop hiden
- prolactin
- oxytocin
The hormone prolactin, secreted from a special structure called the pituitary gland in the lower part of the brain, establishes a relationship with the cells in the breast tissue through special receptors and plays a major role in milk production. In addition, the hormone oxytocin, also secreted from the pituitary gland (posterior pituitary), begins to be secreted especially when the baby starts to suckle its mother. The flow in the milk ducts and at the nipple is also maintained by this hormone. Some other hormones involved in breast milk production are as follows:
- estrogen
- progesterone
- insulin
- growth hormone
Why does milk come after birth/ Does breast milk come before birth?
The above-mentioned hormones work in such harmony that they produce milk, allow it to enter the ducts, but prevent it from leaving the ducts before the baby leaves the uterus. This is because some of the above-mentioned hormones play a central role in the system that prevents milk from coming out during pregnancy, and some changes in the levels of these hormones after birth trigger the mechanism that starts milk coming out.
What can a mother do for breast milk production?
It is important to eat well, to be happy, to be stress-free and to rest in order to stimulate the hormones, milk ducts and milk glands that enable breast milk to be produced. Regular and light pregnancy exercises, drinking plenty of fluids, a peaceful mood and good nutrition are known to increase breast milk.
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Colostrum is very valuable
The first milk from the mother’s breast is called colostrum. This slightly greenish colored milk is very precious and of great importance for the baby’s nutrition. It should never be wasted. If this first milk comes when the mother is not with her baby for different reasons (sometimes the newborn baby may be taken to the incubator or intensive care unit), it should be placed in a milk storage container and delivered to the baby.
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Why does milk come late?
A kind of suppression of milk hormones prevents milk from coming in. This is a natural mechanism that prevents milk from coming before the baby is born. Sometimes, especially in cesarean deliveries, the message to the hormones goes out later and breast milk may be delayed for a day or two. In this process, it is recommended that the mother be patient and breastfeed the baby continuously with a happy and stress-free approach. This is because as breastfeeding is practiced, the suppression on hormones is lifted and the milk ducts open, paving the way for milk to flow.
Giving breast milk to the baby with a bottle!
We understand which organ makes breast milk and how it is made. The birth is over and the milk is coming in. But what is the best way to breastfeed when you can’t be with your baby?
- Express your milk even when you are not with your baby. Electric breast pumps are very practical for this .
- Put the expressed milk in a breast milk storage bag or milk storage container.
- Be sure to write your name and the date of milking on the milk storage container or bag.
- Store breast milk in the refrigerator or in a cool place if you are going to leave it at room temperature for 3 hours.
- Put the milk in a bottle before giving it to the baby. Then put the bottle in a bucket or container with warm water and keep it warm.
Use a bottle that does not cause gas.