Lactation begins after delivery when mammary glands produce milk. Estrogen and progesterone inhibit milk production during pregnancy. Pituitary hormones, especially prolactin, support milk production. Suckling triggers oxytocin release for milk ejection
Breast milk contains over 200 beneficial elements and is customized by mother's body. Exclusive breastfeeding recommended for up to six months. WHO study shows breastfeeding reduces obesity risk by up to 25%
Doctors recommend breastfeeding within minutes of birth. Babies should be fed when hungry, before crying. Breastfeeding should be exclusive for first 6 months
Experts recommend waiting 4-8 weeks after breastfeeding to start pumping. Early pumping needed for premature babies, health issues, or weight loss. Pumping should begin 3 weeks before returning to work
Lactation is milk production from mammary glands during pregnancy and postpartum. Hormones like progesterone and prolactin initially regulate milk production. Milk removal becomes primary driver after 10 days postpartum. Breast milk contains 0.9-1.2g protein/dL, 3.2-3.6g fat/dL, 6.7-7.8g lactose/dL
Baby's chin pause indicates milk intake, longer pause means more milk. Timing feedings by clock is not recommended. Asymmetric latch: chin in breast, nose not touching