_IMG_45_02neurohormone.jpg
Milk release positive feedback.
A baby suckling at the nipple sends nerve signals to
sensory neurons in the hypothalamus.
Oxytocin is made by neurosecretory cells
and stored in the posterior pituitary.
When oxytocin circulates to target cells in the breast,
it triggers smooth muscle contraction and release of milk.
The milk encourages more suckling at the nipple.
The anterior pituitary also releases _FIG_adenohypophysis.html prolactin,
stimulating milk production in the breast.