International Board of Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) Practice Exam

What is another term for lactogenesis II?

1. Secretory activation

2. Colostrum development

3. Milk ejection

4. Initial secretion

The correct answer is: Secretory activation

Lactogenesis II, also referred to as secretory activation, is a critical phase in the milk production process that occurs approximately 2 to 5 days after childbirth. During this stage, the mammary glands transition from producing colostrum— the nutrient-dense first milk—to mature milk production. This shift is marked by an increase in milk volume and changes in the composition of milk to meet the nutritional needs of the newborn. The term "secretory activation" specifically describes the physiological changes within the breast tissue that lead to an increased supply of milk. Hormonal changes, particularly an increase in prolactin levels, play a significant role in this process. The mammary gland cells become fully activated to secrete milk, which is essential for breastfeeding. Other terms such as colostrum development and initial secretion refer to earlier stages or specific components of lactation but do not encompass the full process of transitioning to mature milk production represented by lactogenesis II. Additionally, milk ejection is a separate process known as the let-down reflex, which facilitates the release of milk from the alveoli to the nipple but does not define lactogenesis II itself.