Mammary Glands, Human
Mammary glands are organs in the human body which produce milk for nourishment of infants. They are located in the female breast, and are responsible for the production of milk that is essential for a newborn’s development. Mammary glands are unique to female humans, however, they can be found in other mammals too. Mammary glands are important to the health of both mother and child as they are essential for producing the essential nutrients and antibodies the newborn needs for proper growth and development. They also play an important role in helping to establish the important bonds of attachment and trust between the mother and child. In addition, they also produce hormones such as prolactin and oxytocin that play a role in stimulating milk production and the release of milk from the breast. The mammary glands can also be useful in medical research, helping scientists to better understand the human body’s growth and development, as well as its reactions to certain drugs, hormones and other substances. The mammary glands are also used in a variety of pharmaceutical and cosmetic products which contain milk derivatives such as lactose, casein and whey.
← Journal of Breastfeeding Biology