English to Portuguese Medical Medical (general)

Oxytocin is the same hormone that stimulates uterine contractions during labor. Consequently, the MER can be triggered during labor, as evidenced by leakage of colostrum. This reflex readies the breast for immediate feeding by the infant after birth. Oxytocin has the important function of contracting the mother's uterus after birth to control postpartum bleeding and promote uterine involution. Thus mothers who breastfeed are at decreased risk for postpartum hemorrhage. These uterine contractions, or "afterpains," that occur with breastfeeding are often painful during and after feeding for the first 3 to 5 days, particularly in multiparas, although they resolve within 1 week after birth.