Maternal Physiology and Anatomy Flashcards
6 cards from real IBCLC practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 Maternal Physiology and Anatomy flashcards as text
What is the average volume of colostrum produced per feeding in the first 24 hours after birth?
Answer: 2-10 mL per feeding
Colostrum is produced in small volumes of approximately 2-10 mL per feeding, appropriate for the newborn's small stomach.
The Feedback Inhibitor of Lactation (FIL) is a protein that plays a key role in milk production regulation. How does it function?
Answer: When milk accumulates in the alveoli, FIL slows the rate of milk synthesis by acting locally on the lactocytes
FIL is a whey protein that accumulates when milk is not removed, acting locally on lactocytes to reduce milk synthesis.
What is the significance of the fourth intercostal nerve in relation to breastfeeding?
Answer: It provides primary sensory innervation to the nipple-areolar complex, essential for triggering the neuroendocrine reflex arc
The fourth intercostal nerve is the primary sensory nerve of the nipple-areolar complex, essential for triggering prolactin and oxytocin release.
How does the composition change from colostrum to mature milk during the first two weeks postpartum?
Answer: Sodium and protein concentrations decrease while lactose and fat concentrations increase
The transition involves decreasing sodium, protein, and immunoglobulins while lactose, fat, and water content increase.
What is the mechanism by which stress can inhibit the milk ejection reflex?
Answer: Catecholamines released during stress inhibit oxytocin release and may constrict myoepithelial cells
Stress-induced catecholamines can inhibit oxytocin release and may directly affect myoepithelial cell contraction.
A mother has a history of breast augmentation with implants placed behind the pectoral muscle. What is the expected impact on her ability to breastfeed?
Answer: Subpectoral implants generally have minimal impact on breastfeeding as glandular tissue and ductal system are less likely to be disrupted
Subpectoral placement typically preserves glandular tissue, ducts, and nerve supply better than subglandular placement.