- The series of cellular changes in the breast over the course of lactation, from milk secretion to maintenance and then cessation.
- The Stages of Lactogenesis:
| STAGES OF LACTOGENESIS | DESCRIPTION |
|---|---|
| Stage I (secretory differentiation) |
Beginning in mid-pregnancy to day two or day three postpartum, the breasts develop the capacity to secrete breast milk, including the secretion of colostrum. |
| Stage II (secretory activation) |
Beginning on day two or day three postpartum until day eight, breast milk volume increases rapidly and then abruptly levels off. |
| Stage III (galactopoiesis) | From approximately day nine postpartum and onwards, the volume of breast milk produced is maintained through a supply and demand mechanism. |
| Stage IV (involution) | Involution occurs, on average, 40 days after the last breastfeed, when breast milk secretion ceases. |
Women and Children
Breastfeeding Best Practice Guidelines for Nurses
Point of Care Resources