Mammary Glands: The mammary gland is a gland located in the breasts of females that is responsible for lactation, or the production of milk. Both males and females have glandular tissue within the breasts; however, in females the glandular tissue begins to develop after puberty in response to estrogen release. Mammary glands only produce milk after childbirth. During pregnancy, the hormones progesterone and prolactin are released.

Structure of Mammary Gland

Function of Mammary Glands

• It helps in the production of milk.
• Estrogen has a vital role in the expansion of the milk ducts, which causes them to branch out to accommodate more milk.
• At the time of puberty, the growth hormones and estrogen cause the development and growth of the mammary glands.
• Progesterone and estrogen in pregnancy increase, there is a growth in the milk ducts and the enlargement of breasts.

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By Team Learning Mantras