International Board of Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) Practice Exam

What hormonal treatment is advised six months before the arrival of a baby to induce lactation?

1. Progesterone-only pills

2. Estrogen-only pills

3. Progesterone-estrogen birth control pills

4. Anti-estrogen medications

The correct answer is: Progesterone-estrogen birth control pills

The recommendation for progesterone-estrogen birth control pills six months prior to the arrival of a baby to induce lactation is based on how these hormones work together to prepare the body for breastfeeding. Progesterone helps in the development of the mammary glands and supports the changes in breast tissue necessary for milk production. Estrogen plays a crucial role in breast development and increases blood flow to breast tissue, which is essential as the body gears up for lactation. By using both hormones in a contraceptive formulation, breastfeeding preparation is optimized, creating an encouraging environment for milk production after childbirth. This approach aligns with the physiological changes that occur during normal pregnancy, thereby making it easier for a person to initiate breastfeeding effectively. Other options do not provide the same synergistic benefits. For instance, anti-estrogen medications would inhibit the effectiveness of lactation preparation, while progesterone-only or estrogen-only pills might not provide the complete hormonal balance necessary for adequate breast development and subsequent milk production.