| Abstract: | Lactation is a psychological phenomenon. This is indicated by the fact that breastfeeding has declined so rapidly in recent years in western countries. Successful breastfeeding depends on maternal factors, infant response to breastfeeding, and various psychophysiological factors, which are, in turn, affected by the maternal and infant variables. Studies have shown generally that women who have more positive or stronger maternal attitudes and those who had more positive obstetric experiences are more likely to breastfeed. They are also more likely to succeed and to continue with breastfeeding. Women who respond sexually to the process of breastfeeding are more likely to succeed with it. Women are more likely to breastfeed if attitudes in the general society are favorable to it. 2 psychosomatic mechanisms--the milk-ejection reflex and the suckling stimulation--are discussed in relation to the success of the lactation process. Through these mechanisms, the previously discussed psychological factors may affect the actual production of milk. |
