Artificial Induction of Lactation in Ewes: The Involvement of Progesterone and Prolactin in Lactogenesis

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Abstract
The importance of prolactin and progesterone withdrawal for lactogenesis was evaluated. The experimental model system used was the ovariectomized, non-pregnant ewe induced to lactate artificially by treatment with trigger hormone (either estrogen, glucocorticoid or oxytocin) alone or in combination with progesterone. Prolactin is apparently important in the lactogenic responses elicited by estrogen and oxytocin but not as important in the response elicited by glucocorticoid. In the ewe an appropriate positive hormonal stimulus will probably overcome the inhibitory influence of progesterone on lactogenesis.