Which two hormones are critical for the process of breastfeeding?

Prolactin and oxytocin are central to the breastfeeding process, each playing distinct yet complementary roles. Prolactin, produced by the anterior pituitary gland, is responsible for stimulating mammary gland development and milk production. Its levels increase during pregnancy and peak in response to breastfeeding, ensuring that the mother produces enough milk to meet the infant’s needs.

Oxytocin, on the other hand, is crucial for milk ejection, or the letdown reflex. Released from the posterior pituitary gland in response to nipple stimulation during breastfeeding, oxytocin causes the muscle cells around the milk-producing glands to contract, pushing the milk through the ducts and into the nipple. This hormone also promotes bonding between mother and infant, enhancing the breastfeeding experience.

While the other hormones listed may play various roles in overall metabolism or stress response, they do not have the specific functions that directly support the lactation process in the way that prolactin and oxytocin do.