What happens to milk ejection from the breast due to oxytocin?

The process of milk ejection, also known as the "milk let-down reflex," is significantly influenced by the hormone oxytocin. When a baby suckles at the breast, sensory signals are sent to the mother’s brain, prompting the release of oxytocin from the posterior pituitary gland. Oxytocin acts on the myoepithelial cells surrounding the alveoli in the breast, causing these cells to contract. This contraction leads to the expulsion of milk from the alveoli into the ducts and ultimately out of the nipple, effectively triggering the ejection of milk.

Understanding the role of oxytocin in this process is crucial for comprehending how nursing works and the physiological mechanisms that facilitate breastfeeding. The release of oxytocin not only helps in the physical aspect of milk transfer but also plays a role in establishing the emotional bond between mother and child during breastfeeding, reinforcing the importance of oxytocin beyond mere physical function.