What happens to the mammary gland during pregnancy and lactation?
Pregnancy induces profound changes in the mammary gland, driven by hormones such as prolactin, estrogen, and progesterone. The glandular tissue proliferates extensively, with alveoli forming at the ends of the ducts. These alveoli are lined with secretory epithelial cells that produce milk. After childbirth, the milk is secreted into the ductal system and transported to the nipple for breastfeeding.
