Successful lactation depends on which two factors?

Successful lactation primarily hinges on two critical factors: the infant's ability to suck effectively and the mother's ability to produce and deliver milk.

The process of lactation is initiated when the infant latches onto the breast and begins to suck. This sucking action stimulates nerve endings in the mother's nipple, leading to the release of oxytocin and prolactin—hormones that promote milk ejection and milk production, respectively. Without effective sucking from the infant, the necessary hormonal signals for milk production and release may not be triggered adequately, which could hinder lactation.

Additionally, maternal milk production is vital. The mother's body must produce enough milk to meet the infant's demands. This production is influenced by various factors, including the frequency of breastfeeding sessions and the overall health of the mother. The delivery of milk, or let-down reflex, is also essential to ensure the infant can access the milk. Thus, the combination of the infant's sucking ability and the mother's capacity to produce and deliver milk is crucial for effective breastfeeding and successful lactation.