IBLCE Anatomy and Physiology of Lactation 2

Question 1

Feedback Inhibitor of Lactation (FIL) is a whey protein that regulates milk supply by:

Accepted Answer

Inhibiting milk synthesis when the breast is full

Answer

FIL accumulates in stored milk and locally inhibits further milk synthesis; frequent removal of milk reduces FIL concentration, signaling the breast to produce more.

Question 2

Milk produced in the first several days postpartum is called colostrum. Compared to mature milk, colostrum is:

Accepted Answer

Higher in protein and immunoglobulins and lower in lactose

Answer

Colostrum is rich in secretory IgA, lactoferrin, and protein while being lower in lactose and fat compared to mature milk, providing immune protection to the newborn.

Question 3

The primary immunoglobulin found in human breast milk that provides passive mucosal immunity to the infant is:

Accepted Answer

Secretory IgA

Answer

Secretory IgA (sIgA) is the predominant antibody in breast milk; it resists digestion in the infant's gut and coats mucosal surfaces to prevent pathogen attachment.

Question 4

Which anatomical feature of the nipple-areolar complex contains sebaceous glands that secrete lubricating and antimicrobial substances?

Accepted Answer

Montgomery glands

Answer

Montgomery glands (areolar glands) secrete an oily substance that lubricates and protects the nipple-areolar complex and emits an odor that guides the newborn to the breast.

Question 5

Skin-to-skin contact promotes breastfeeding success primarily by releasing which maternal hormone?

Accepted Answer

Oxytocin

Answer

Skin-to-skin contact stimulates oxytocin release, which promotes milk let-down, maternal calm, and bonding behaviors that support successful breastfeeding initiation.

IBLCE - International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners Practice Test

IBLCE - International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners Practice Test

IBLCE Anatomy and Physiology of Lactation 2