The viscosity, protein distribution, and ‘gold number’ of the antenatal and postnatal secretions of the human mammary gland

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Abstract
The authors detd. the kinematic viscosity and the total N, non-protein N, globulin and casein in many specimens obtained during late pregnancy and early lactation. A simple new test, the estimation of the "gold number" is described which measures the protecting power of the colloids present in the secretions. The viscosity ([nu]) and the gold number (G) were related to the cone, of total N by the equations: log [nu] = 0.65.c[long dash]0.07, and G = 3000.c[long dash]200. During pregnancy no systematic changes in any of the factors studied occurred as a result of regular expression of the secretion. Globulin was the predominant protein fraction. During the first few days post partum the viscosity, total N, globulin, and the Au number fell with regularity to much lower levels, casein which fell in a less pronounced manner now becoming the predominant protein fraction. It is proposed to confine the use of the term "colostrum" to the fluid secreted during the short period during which these characteristic changes take place. Engorgement had no marked effect on the physical or chemical factors investigated. The mechanism of milk production is established with remarkable regularity and faults in the mechanism of expulsion are the principal causes for the difficulties encountered so often in early lactation.