International Board of Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) Practice Exam

Which artery is primarily responsible for supplying blood to the breast during lactation?

1. Subclavian artery

2. Axillary artery

3. Internal mammary artery

4. Brachial artery

The correct answer is: Internal mammary artery

The internal mammary artery plays a crucial role in supplying blood to the breast during lactation. It is a branch of the subclavian artery and runs parallel to the sternum, providing a significant portion of the blood flow to the breast tissue. This is particularly important during lactation since the demand for blood supply increases to support milk production and delivery. The internal mammary artery branches into smaller arteries, including the perforating branches, which penetrate the chest wall and nourish the overlying breast tissue. Adequate blood supply is essential for the metabolic processes involved in lactation, such as the synthesis of milk components and maintaining breast tissue health. While the subclavian artery does contribute to overall circulation, it is the internal mammary artery that specifically provides the principal blood supply to the breast area. The axillary artery and brachial artery are involved in blood supply to the upper limb but do not primarily serve the breast itself.