IBCLC Maternal Physiology and Anatomy 3

Question 1

What is the average volume of colostrum produced per feeding in the first 24 hours after birth?

Accepted Answer

2-10 mL per feeding

Answer

Colostrum is produced in small volumes of approximately 2-10 mL per feeding, appropriate for the newborn's small stomach.

Question 2

The Feedback Inhibitor of Lactation (FIL) is a protein that plays a key role in milk production regulation. How does it function?

Accepted Answer

When milk accumulates in the alveoli, FIL slows the rate of milk synthesis by acting locally on the lactocytes

Answer

FIL is a whey protein that accumulates when milk is not removed, acting locally on lactocytes to reduce milk synthesis.

Question 3

What is the significance of the fourth intercostal nerve in relation to breastfeeding?

Accepted Answer

It provides primary sensory innervation to the nipple-areolar complex, essential for triggering the neuroendocrine reflex arc

Answer

The fourth intercostal nerve is the primary sensory nerve of the nipple-areolar complex, essential for triggering prolactin and oxytocin release.

Question 4

How does the composition change from colostrum to mature milk during the first two weeks postpartum?

Accepted Answer

Sodium and protein concentrations decrease while lactose and fat concentrations increase

Answer

The transition involves decreasing sodium, protein, and immunoglobulins while lactose, fat, and water content increase.

Question 5

What is the mechanism by which stress can inhibit the milk ejection reflex?

Accepted Answer

Catecholamines released during stress inhibit oxytocin release and may constrict myoepithelial cells

Answer

Stress-induced catecholamines can inhibit oxytocin release and may directly affect myoepithelial cell contraction.

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