Lactating Meaning in Telugu - Breast Milk Production and Secretion

What Does Lactating Mean in Telugu?

The term "lactating" refers to the production and secretion of breast milk from the mammary glands. Here is a look at what lactating means in Telugu:

Lactating in Telugu

In Telugu, the term for lactating is " " (plu peukvaa). This directly translates to "to give or secrete milk."

Some other Telugu words and phrases related to lactating include:

• (Breastfeeding)
• (When milk comes from the breast)
• (Lactation)
• (Milk production)

Why Do Women Lactate?

Lactation occurs as a result of hormonal signals triggered by pregnancy and childbirth.

During pregnancy, rising levels of estrogen and progesterone cause the ducts and milk glands in the breast to grow and enlarge. This prepares the breasts for milk production and breastfeeding.

After delivery, levels of estrogen and progesterone drop abruptly while prolactin levels rise. This stimulates the production of breastmilk.

Oxytocin, stimulated by suckling of the baby on the breast, then causes contractions in the mammary glands, resulting in milk being ejected down the ducts.

As long as regular breastfeeding continues, lactation will carry on. Typically lactation lasts for 6 months to 2 years, until the baby is weaned off breastmilk.

What Causes Lactation Other Than Pregnancy?

In some cases, lactation can occur even without pregnancy or childbirth. Some potential causes include:

• Hormonal Imbalances: Tumors involving the pituitary gland, ovaries or adrenal glands can cause high prolactin levels and milk production.
• Medications: Antipsychotic drugs like risperidone can increase prolactin secretion.
• Herbs: Herbal supplements like fennel and fenugreek may stimulate breast growth and milk production.
• Nipple Stimulation: Frequent mechanical stimulation of the breasts and nipples can also trigger lactation in some women.

In most cases, non-pregnancy related lactation goes away once the underlying cause is treated. Medications can help suppress milk production until hormonal balance is restored.

What Does It Feel Like to Lactate?

The sensation of lactating can vary for different women. Here are some common experiences:

• Tingling, fullness or heaviness in the breasts as they fill with milk.
• Sensitivity, tenderness or pain as milk accumulates.
• Relief and reduced fullness when milk is expressed.
• Dripping or leaking of milk between feedings.
• Let-down reflex - a tingly feeling that milk is starting to flow.

Some women may experience no sensation while others feel strong urges to nurse or express milk. The breasts and nipples may become larger and darker during lactation.

While lactating can be perfectly normal and healthy, any worrisome breast changes should be evaluated by a doctor.

Tips for Comfort During Lactation

Here are some tips to help manage lactating breasts:

• Wear a supportive nursing bra to minimize discomfort
• Apply warm compresses to soothe engorged breasts
• Feed baby frequently to avoid overfull breasts
• Try massaging the breasts while nursing to improve milk flow
• Use breast pads to absorb leaking milk between feedings
• Get enough rest, stay hydrated and eat a balanced diet

If lactating is causing severe pain or fussiness in the baby, consult a lactation consultant or doctor for guidance and treatment.

Stopping Lactation

When breastfeeding is stopped, lactation will gradually slow down and halt over days to weeks. To help the process along:

• Stop expressing breastmilk or reduce pumping sessions gradually
• Use cold compresses and firm support bras to discourage milk flow
• Avoid stimulating the breasts/nipples
• Over-the-counter pain medications can provide relief
• Prescription meds like cabergoline may be recommended

In most cases, lactation will stop within 2 weeks after breastfeeding ends. If production persists beyond this timeframe, see a doctor to address any underlying disorder.

Conclusion

In Telugu, the term for lactating is "plu peukvaa" meaning "to secrete milk." Though commonly associated with pregnancy and nursing, lactation can sometimes occur due to hormonal imbalances, nipple stimulation, medications or herbs.

Managing lactating breasts involves frequent breastfeeding/pumping, supportive bras, warm/cold compresses and nipple care. If troublesome symptoms develop, consulting a doctor or lactation consultant can help.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.