Reproductive System & Sexual Disorders: Current Research
Open Access

Mammary Gland

Mammary gland: The compound accessory reproductive organs of female mammals that occur in pairs on the chest or ventral surface and contain milk-producing lobes with ducts that empty into an external nipple, Within each mammary gland is a network of sacs that produce milk during lactation and send it to the nipple via a system of ducts.

Mammary gland function is regulated by hormones. At puberty, increasing levels of estrogen stimulate the development of glandular tissue in the female breast. Estrogen also causes the breast to increase in size through the accumulation of adipose tissue. Progesterone stimulates the development of the duct system. During pregnancy, these hormones enhance further development of the mammary glands.

Related Journals of Mammary Gland

Gynecology & Obstetrics, Current Trends in Gynecologic Oncology, Breast, Breast Care, Breast Journal, Breastfeeding Medicine, Breast Cancer: Targets and Therapy, Breast Diseases.