What stimulates the release of prolactin and initiates lactation after delivery?
Estrogen
Progesterone
Suckling
Oxytocin
After delivery, the concentration of progesterone falls, allowing the secretion of prolactin to start and initiate lactation. However, the most effective stimulus for the release of prolactin is suckling. When the baby suckles at the breast, it stimulates nerve endings in the nipple, which sends signals to the brain. These signals trigger the release of prolactin from the anterior pituitary gland, leading to the production of milk in the mammary glands. Therefore, suckling plays a crucial role in stimulating the release of prolactin and initiating lactation.
Option 3 is the correct answer.