Final answer:
Breast milk contains the mother's antibodies, which provide passive immunity to the infant, helping them fight off infections like ear infections and pneumonia. These antibodies are part of the mother's immune system and are passed to the baby through breastfeeding, which is initiated by hormones that stimulate milk production and release.
Step-by-step explanation:
Breast milk contains the mother's antibodies which help the infant ward off health problems such as ear infections and pneumonia. During lactation, these antibodies are produced by the mother and passed to the infant, providing what is called passive immunity.
This is a crucial aspect of an infant's initial immune defense system, as the antibodies from the mother help to protect the newborn against various pathogens.
The transfer of immunity occurs via the colostrum, which is the initial breast milk rich in immunoglobulins, and through mature breast milk that continues to provide important immunological protection.
The production and release of breast milk are carefully orchestrated by hormones like prolactin and oxytocin. Prolactin stimulates the mammary glands to produce milk, while oxytocin triggers the milk 'let-down' reflex for the milk to be expelled from the glands.
Breast milk not only provides the necessary nutrients and hydration for the baby's development but also contains enzymes, vitamins, and hormones that are essential for the baby's growth.