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Mammary gland, responsible for lactating is located in the breasts of females. Unlike men, in women, post puberty the glandular tissue develops in response to release of estrogen in females. These glands assist in milk production in lactating mothers post childbirth. Progesterone and prolactin are released during pregnancy, of which progesterone interferes with prolactin and prevents the mammary gland lactation during this period. However, during this period small amounts of pre-milk substance (colostrum) are produced, this substance is rich in nutrients and antibodies that help the infants to sustain for the first few days of life. Post childbirth, the levels of progesterone levels decrease and prolactin levels remain raised which results in milk production or lactation process. The mammary glands are signaled to initiate lactation process after each time a baby is breastfed. During menopausal stage, the tissues become fibrous and degenerative and hence, decrease the capacity of milk production.
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