What does the “letdown reflex” refer to in lactation?

The letdown reflex specifically refers to the physiological response that occurs during breastfeeding, where the hormone oxytocin is released in response to suckling. This release causes the muscles surrounding the milk-producing glands in the breast to contract, leading to the ejection of milk into the milk ducts and ultimately making it available for the infant.

This process is crucial for effective breastfeeding, as it allows the baby to receive milk when they are suckling at the breast. It is an important part of the lactation process that supports the baby’s feeding and helps stimulate ongoing milk production. Understanding the letdown reflex helps lactation consultants support breastfeeding mothers by addressing any concerns related to milk flow or infant feeding behavior.

The other choices relate to different aspects of lactation but do not accurately define the letdown reflex itself. For instance, the initiation of breastfeeding describes when the mother begins the feeding process, the absorption of nutrients pertains to the baby digesting the milk after it has been ingested, and the production of colostrum refers to the early milk produced in the first few days postpartum that’s rich in antibodies and nutrients.