Which hormone stimulates milk production in the breast?

• A. Estrogen
• B. Oxytocin
• C. Progesterone
• D. Prolactin

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Begin by identifying the primary function of each hormone listed in the options. Estrogen is mainly involved in the development of female secondary sexual characteristics and regulation of the menstrual cycle.
2. Understand the role of Oxytocin, which is primarily responsible for stimulating uterine contractions during childbirth and facilitating milk ejection during breastfeeding, but not milk production.
3. Recognize the function of Progesterone, which is crucial for regulating the menstrual cycle and maintaining pregnancy, but does not directly stimulate milk production.
4. Learn about Prolactin, the hormone responsible for stimulating milk production in the mammary glands. It is produced by the anterior pituitary gland and plays a key role in lactation.
5. Conclude that Prolactin is the correct answer, as it directly stimulates the mammary glands to produce milk, differentiating it from the other hormones listed.