Rintarauhasia

Rintarauhasia, often translated as mammary glands, are specialized organs found in most female mammals, including humans, responsible for producing milk to nourish their offspring. While primarily a female characteristic, rudimentary mammary tissue is also present in males. These glands are composed of glandular tissue that secretes milk and adipose tissue that provides structure and insulation. The development of rintarauhasia is significantly influenced by hormones, particularly estrogen and progesterone, which become active during puberty and pregnancy. After childbirth, the hormone prolactin stimulates milk production, and oxytocin facilitates its release through a process called the milk ejection reflex. The structure of the rintarauhasia includes a network of ducts that collect milk from the lobules and converge towards the nipple, a protruding part of the breast. The size and shape of the rintarauhasia can vary considerably among individuals due to genetic factors and the amount of adipose tissue. In humans, the rintarauhasia are located on the chest.