The female breast has a complex physiology, which is particularly evident during pregnancy and breastfeeding. First stage of pregnancy: deepening of the color of the areola. The darker color of the nipple is perhaps to make it easier for the newborn to find its target when drinking breast milk. In preparation for breastfeeding, a large number of hormones in the pregnant woman’s body stimulate and enlarge the lobules of the breast that produce milk. Stage 2: At 16 weeks of pregnancy, the breasts are ready for breastfeeding. The breasts begin to produce and store “colostrum,” which is reserved for the first few days of the baby’s life. In order to increase the chances of survival of the preterm baby, milk at this stage contains more protein, iron, sodium and fat, and is more anti-inflammatory. At 24 weeks of gestation, breast engorgement doubles and will remain stable until delivery, providing for continued lactation. Third stage of pregnancy: After 24 weeks of gestation, the mammary alveoli are fully developed and tiny lactation cells begin to multiply; these cells are extremely active until a sufficient amount of colostrum has been produced. Breastfeeding: The baby’s sucking is especially important; the more it sucks, the more milk is produced. Sucking stimulates the nerves in the nipple and sends a signal to the brain to “produce lactation hormones”. One of these hormones, oxytocin, also helps the uterus to contract and reset, which is why new mothers often feel abdominal cramps when breastfeeding their children. In addition, the areola glands release lubricant to protect the nipple and have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.