Mother's milk

Mother's Milk

Mother's milk, also known as breast milk, is the milk produced by the mammary glands of a postpartum female to feed a child. Mother's milk is the primary source of nutrition for newborns before they are able to eat and digest other foods.

Composition

Mother's milk is made up of many components, including proteins, fats, vitamins, and carbohydrates. The most abundant substance in mother's milk is water, which makes up about 87% of its composition. The remaining 13% is a complex mixture of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates, which provide essential nutrients for the baby's growth and development.

Benefits

Mother's milk has numerous benefits for both the mother and the baby. For the baby, it provides all the necessary nutrients in the proper proportions. It also protects against allergies, sickness, and obesity. For the mother, breastfeeding can help to reduce the risk of breast cancer, ovarian cancer, and type 2 diabetes. It can also help to create a strong bond between mother and baby.

Production

The production of mother's milk, known as lactation, begins during pregnancy and continues after the baby is born. The hormone prolactin stimulates the production of milk, while the hormone oxytocin causes the milk to be released from the breast.

Challenges

While breastfeeding is natural, it can also be challenging for some mothers. Some common challenges include sore nipples, low milk supply, and latching difficulties. There are many resources available to help mothers overcome these challenges, including lactation consultants and support groups.

See Also

• Breastfeeding
• Infant formula
• Lactation
• Human Milk Banking Association of North America