Final Answer:
The hormones involved in lactation primarily include prolactin and oxytocin.
Step-by-step explanation:
Lactation, the process of milk production in mammals, is intricately regulated by hormones. Prolactin, synthesized in the anterior pituitary gland, serves as the primary hormone stimulating milk production. Its secretion increases during pregnancy and remains high postpartum, crucial for the maintenance of lactation.
Prolactin acts on the mammary glands, promoting the synthesis of milk components, ensuring a continuous supply for the infant's nutrition.
Oxytocin, released from the posterior pituitary gland, plays a pivotal role in the ejection of milk from the alveoli into the ducts, facilitating its flow to the nipple during breastfeeding.
This hormone is triggered by the baby's suckling action, creating a positive feedback loop: suckling stimulates oxytocin release, leading to milk ejection, which further encourages the baby to nurse. This mechanism ensures efficient milk removal and continued production.
The interplay between these hormones orchestrates the complex process of lactation. Prolactin initiates milk production, while oxytocin ensures its delivery to the infant. Understanding the roles of these hormones is crucial in comprehending the physiological mechanisms behind successful breastfeeding and the establishment of a sustainable milk supply for the infant's nourishment and growth.