Milk Boosters: Galactagogue Effect of Each of Domperidone and Fenugreek Oil on Mammary Gland in Lactating and Adult Virgin Female Albino Rats: A Histological, Immuno-histochemical, Biochemical and Histo-morphometric study

Background: The World Health Organisation advises exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of an infant's life since it is essential to their health. Galactagogues like domperidone and fenugreek oil are used to enhance milk production. This study evaluated their effects on mammary gland histology, prolactin levels, and milk yield in lactating and virgin female albino rats. Material and Methods: Forty adult female rats were divided into four groups: control, sham control, domperidone-treated (2.7 mg/kg/day), and fenugreek-treated (0.5 ml/day). Treatments were administered orally for three weeks. Milk yield was measured using pup weight changes. Mammary glands were analyzed histologically using Hematoxylin and Eosin “H&E”, Masson’s trichrome and periodic acid shiff “PAS” stains, immunohistochemically using Proliferating Cell Nuclear Antigen “PCNA expression”, and biochemically by measuring serum prolactin as well as Histo-morphometric study. Results: Domperidone and fenugreek significantly increased milk yield, with domperidone showing the highest effect (P value < 0.05). Histological findings revealed enlarged alveoli, reduced stroma, and increased secretory activity in treated groups. PCNA expression and serum prolactin levels were significantly higher in treated rats, particularly with domperidone. Fenugreek also demonstrated galactagogue effects but was less potent than domperidone. Conclusions: Fenugreek and domperidone both improved the growth of the mammary glands and the production of milk, but domperidone was more successful. These results lend credence to their usage as galactagogues, which may help in lactation.