LACTATION CONSULTANT EXAM TEST BANK
300 QUESTIONS AND CORRECT
ANSWERS(VERIFIED ANSWERS)
1. Which hormone is primarily responsible for milk ejection (let-down reflex)?
Oxytocin
Oxytocin causes the myoepithelial cells around the alveoli to contract,
pushing milk into the ducts and toward the nipple.
2. What is the primary immunoglobulin found in human milk?
IgA
Secretory IgA provides localized immunity by protecting the infant’s
mucosal surfaces from pathogens.
3. What is the main carbohydrate in human breast milk?
Lactose
Lactose provides energy and supports the growth of beneficial gut
bacteria in the infant.
4. Which breastfeeding position is most recommended for a mother
recovering from a cesarean birth?
Football hold
, The football hold keeps the baby away from the mother’s incision site,
minimizing pressure and discomfort.
5. What is the recommended frequency of breastfeeding for a healthy
newborn in the first few weeks?
8–12 times in 24 hours
Frequent feeds help establish milk supply and ensure the baby receives
enough nutrition.
6. What is the best indicator that a newborn is receiving enough breast milk?
Adequate weight gain
Regular weight gain is the most reliable measure of sufficient milk intake.
7. Which reflex helps an infant find the breast and latch on?
Rooting reflex
The rooting reflex prompts the baby to turn their head toward the
stimulus and open their mouth for feeding.
8. What vitamin is recommended to supplement for all breastfed infants?
Vitamin D
Human milk is low in vitamin D, so supplementation prevents rickets and
supports bone health.
9. Which condition is contraindicated for breastfeeding?
HIV infection in the mother (in certain countries)
HIV can be transmitted through breast milk; guidelines vary by country
but in many cases formula feeding is recommended when safe and
feasible.
,10.What is the average caloric content of mature human milk per ounce?
20 kcal/oz
Mature human milk provides about 20 calories per ounce, meeting the
infant’s energy needs.
11.What is the first milk produced called?
Colostrum
Colostrum is rich in immunoglobulins, protein, and nutrients essential for
the newborn’s immunity and gut development.
12.What is a common sign of a poor latch?
Mother experiences nipple pain
Painful nipples often indicate the baby is not latching deeply enough onto
the areola.
13.How long should exclusive breastfeeding be recommended?
6 months
WHO and AAP recommend exclusive breastfeeding for about 6 months
before introducing complementary foods.
14.Which factor does not typically reduce milk supply?
Frequent, effective breastfeeding
Regular and effective emptying of the breast stimulates and maintains
milk production.
15.What is galactorrhea?
Milk production unrelated to breastfeeding
Galactorrhea refers to inappropriate lactation, often due to hormonal
imbalances or medications.
, 16.What hormone primarily stimulates milk production?
Prolactin
Prolactin is released from the anterior pituitary and signals the alveolar
cells to synthesize milk.
17.What is the best initial management for engorgement?
Frequent breastfeeding
Frequent feeding helps empty the breasts and relieves engorgement.
18.What is mastitis?
Breast tissue inflammation with infection
Mastitis presents with pain, redness, fever, and requires antibiotics if
bacterial.
19.What is the role of human milk oligosaccharides?
Promote growth of healthy gut bacteria
HMOs support beneficial microbiota and protect against pathogens.
20.How can a mother prevent sore nipples?
Ensure a good latch
A deep, asymmetrical latch helps prevent nipple trauma.
21.What is the most common cause of low milk supply?
Ineffective milk removal
Milk production depends on supply and demand; poor removal signals the
body to decrease supply.
22.Which sign suggests a baby is getting hindmilk?
Longer feeding sessions with swallowing sounds