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Establishment of breastfeeding refers to the initiation of providing breast milk of mother to baby. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), [ 2 ] breastfeeding is the best way to provide nourishment, including essential nutrients , energy and antibodies , to infants and toddlers .
Breastfeeding, also known as nursing, ... [10]: 18–21 Because of oxytocin's dual activity at the breast and the uterus, ...
Oxytocin is a peptide hormone and neuropeptide normally produced in the hypothalamus and released by the posterior pituitary. [4] Present in animals since early stages of evolution, in humans it plays roles in behavior that include social bonding, love, reproduction, childbirth, and the period after childbirth.
Oxytocin and prolactin are also released during nipple stimulation when the child suckles. The nerve fibres linked to the hypothalamus controls this release and the hormones are released in pulsating patterns. [3] The increased levels of these hormones during breastfeeding have a beneficial effect on the mother's mental health.
Breastfeeding also provides health benefits for the mother. It assists the uterus in returning to its pre-pregnancy size and reduces post-partum bleeding, through the production of oxytocin (see Production). Breastfeeding can also reduce the risk of breast cancer later in life.
Sucking causes the pituitary gland to release oxytocin, which contracts the uterus and prevents bleeding. [1] [6] This can be felt by the mother in the breasts. The crying of the infant can also induce the release of oxytocin. Cracked nipples can develop at this time, which can be managed with pharmacological and nonpharmacological treatment. [4]
Synthetic oxytocin, sold under the brand name Pitocin among others, is a medication made from the peptide oxytocin. [ 6 ] [ 7 ] As a medication, it is used to cause contraction of the uterus to start labor , increase the speed of labor , and to stop bleeding following delivery . [ 6 ]
Oxytocin, released in response to stressors, may be the mechanism underlying the female caregiving response. Studies of ewes show that administration of oxytocin promoted maternal behavior. [9] Breastfeeding in humans, which is associated with maternal oxytocin release, is physiologically calming to both mothers and infants. [1]