International Board of Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) Practice Exam

What effect does dopamine have on milk production?

1. It increases production

2. It decreases production

3. It has no effect

4. It enhances let-down reflex

The correct answer is: It decreases production

Dopamine plays a significant role in the regulation of milk production in lactating individuals. It acts primarily as an inhibitor of prolactin, which is the hormone essential for milk synthesis. When dopamine levels are elevated, they inhibit the secretion of prolactin, leading to a decrease in milk production. This relationship is critical in understanding how hormonal balance affects lactation, as inadequate prolactin can lead to challenges in sustaining an adequate milk supply. In this context, the correct choice reflects the physiological understanding that increased dopamine levels can result in reduced milk production due to its inhibitory effect on prolactin. Consequently, managing dopamine levels is vital in lactation support and addressing concerns related to milk supply. Understanding this hormonal interaction emphasizes the complexity of lactation physiology and the importance of maintaining optimal prolactin levels for effective milk synthesis.