A mother breastfeeding her infant is utilizing what type of gland for that process? 

• A. Paracrine.
• B. Endocrine.
• C. Exocrine.
• D. Stratified.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the function of glands in the body: Glands are specialized structures that produce and secrete substances needed for various bodily functions.
2. Differentiate between types of glands: There are three main types of glands - endocrine, exocrine, and paracrine. Endocrine glands release hormones directly into the bloodstream, exocrine glands secrete substances through ducts to the outside of the body or into a body cavity, and paracrine glands release substances that affect nearby cells.
3. Identify the role of exocrine glands in breastfeeding: The mammary glands, which are responsible for producing milk during breastfeeding, are a type of exocrine gland. They secrete milk through ducts to the nipple, where it is accessible to the infant.
4. Clarify why endocrine and paracrine are not applicable: Endocrine glands are involved in hormone secretion into the bloodstream, not direct secretion to the outside. Paracrine signaling involves local cell-to-cell communication, not secretion through ducts.
5. Conclude with the correct gland type: Since the mammary glands secrete milk through ducts to the nipple, they are classified as exocrine glands, which is the correct answer for the type of gland utilized in breastfeeding.