lactations

Lactations is the plural of lactation, the process by which mammals produce and secrete milk from their mammary glands to feed their young.

The term encompasses the entire period during which a mother is producing milk, which varies by species and individual circumstances.

In agricultural and veterinary contexts, lactations often refers to distinct milk-producing cycles: The dairy cow is in her third lactation.

Healthcare providers track lactations when discussing breastfeeding history or milk production challenges.