Mammary glands

Mammary glands are specialized organs in females that produce milk to nourish infants. Located in the breasts, these glands consist of glandular tissue arranged in lobes and lobules, connected by ducts that carry milk toward the nipple. They develop and become active mainly during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Structurally, mammary glands are influenced by hormonal signals, mainly estrogen and progesterone, which regulate their growth and function. While primarily associated with lactation, they are also important in breast health and can be affected by various conditions, including infections, benign changes, and cancer.