Nipple facts for kids
The nipple is a small part of the body found on the chest of mammals. Both male and female mammals, including humans, have nipples.
Female mammals, like women, use their nipples to feed their babies milk. This process is called breastfeeding. The milk is made inside the breast, which is a special gland.
Special chemicals in the body called hormones control when milk is made for feeding babies. Because of these hormones, male mammals usually don't produce milk.
What is a Nipple?
A nipple is a raised area on the surface of the breast. It has small openings that allow milk to flow out during breastfeeding. Around the nipple, there's a darker area of skin called the areola.
Nipples in Mammals
All mammals have nipples. The number and position of nipples can be different depending on the animal. For example, humans usually have two nipples, while animals like dogs or pigs can have many more, often in rows along their belly. This helps them feed a whole litter of babies at once.
How Milk is Made
Milk production is a complex process. It starts when a female mammal gives birth. Hormones like prolactin tell the body to start making milk. Another hormone, oxytocin, helps the milk flow out when a baby suckles. This amazing system ensures that baby mammals get the food they need to grow strong and healthy.
Related pages
See also
In Spanish: Pezón para niños
