Question

• Describe the development, the structure, and the functional components of the mammary gland. Describe the key hormonal influences on development and function.

• Summarize the benefits of breastfeeding for mothers and their babies in a manner that could be included in breastfeeding education for expecting mothers, their partners, and family members

Answer 1

Mammary gland : exocrine gland that produces milk to feed offspring

development

form from rudimentary duct tree at birth under influence of hormones . Mammary bud epithelial cells proliferate and sprout down to mesenchymal layer where they branch and mesenchymal cells transform into mammary specific mesenchyme that later transform to connective tissue with fibrous thread having blood vessels and lymph ducts

structure: composed of alveoli which has cuboidal cells that secrete milk. Alveoli are surrounded by myoeithelial cells. Alveoli join to form lobules . Each lobule has lactiferous duct that open into nipple.

functional component of mammary glands are alveoli which has lining of milk secreting cuboidal cells . Milk is transferred to nipple via lactiferous ducts.

hormonal influence: estrogen and growth hormone play an important role in its development . Growth hormone stimulates ductal development whereas estrogen causes growth of stromal and fat tissue that surround ductal system.

Under the stimulus of oxytocin, myoepithelial cells contract to eject milk via lactiferous ducts to nipple.

benefits of breastfeeding:

• Breast milk provides immunity to the baby
• it is economical way of feeding
• It is a complete source of nutrition
• Establishes bonding with mother
• Lowers the risk of diarrhea and sudden infant death syndrome
• Promotes good development of baby brain and lowers the risk of obesity , cancer, heart disease and diabetes.
• for mother, it reduces the risk of breast cancer, ovarian cancer
• Reduces postpartum problems like bleeding
• Natural and convenient way
• provides natural contraception