The foetoplacental unit and the initiation of lactation in the rat

Rats were either Caesarean-sectioned, ovariohysterectomized or ovariectomized on day 19 of gestation anti the role of prolactin and corticosteroids in the initiation of lactation was studied by administering 2~bromo-lX-ergocryptine (CB 154) and prolactin, and by using adrenalectomy and foetectomY. The concentrations of corticosteroids and prolactin in the plasma and the weight and lactose content of the inguinal mammary glands were determined 48 h after Caesarean section, and 24 h after ovariohysterectomy and ovariectomy.