Lactation (Breast Milk Production) falls under the Pregnancy & Children category.

Evidence-based

Lactation (Breast Milk Production)

Written by:

Natalka Roshak, Rachel Hathcock

Fact-checked by:

James Gaylor, Nick Milazzo

•Last Updated: November 30, 2023

Lactation is the process of milk production and secretion from the mammary glands. To learn about breastfeeding as an intervention (e.g., in comparison to using infant formula), see our breastfeeding page.

Written by:

Fact-checked by:

Last Updated:November 30, 2023

Research Snapshot

59 references on this page

2,077 participants in 17 trials and 2 meta-analyses

Examine Evidence Grades

BMilk Production + 2 more

Overview

What is lactation?

How does physical activity affect lactation?

Have any supplements been studied for lactation?

How can diet affect lactation?

Which other factors can affect lactation?

Examine Database: Lactation (Breast Milk Production)

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Frequently Asked Questions

How is milk produced?

What are some of the benefits of breastmilk for the baby?

Does lactation also benefit the lactating parent?

How is breastmilk produced?

How many more calories should I consume while lactating?

Can I actively try to lose weight while breastfeeding and maintain supply?

Are there any foods I cannot eat while breastfeeding?

Is it safe to have caffeine while breastfeeding?

Can diet change the composition of milk?

Can I breastfeed while maintaining a vegetarian or vegan diet?

Can I breastfeed while maintaining a ketogenic diet?

Is it okay to consume artificial sweeteners while breastfeeding?

Should I take a multivitamin while breastfeeding?

Can I still drink alcohol while breastfeeding?

How to optimize breastfeeding techniques to support milk supply

Are there factors that mean that parents should not breastfeed?

What factors mean that parents should temporarily suspend breastfeeding?

What factors mean that parents should feed expressed breastmilk, instead of directly from the breast?

Update History

November 30, 2023

Cross-link to breastfeeding added
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References

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