witches' milk

Brief milk production from the breasts of newborn babies of either sex due to the presence of the hormone PROLACTIN in the mother's blood. This passes through the placenta to the fetus before birth. The effect is harmless and soon wears off.

Collins Dictionary of Medicine © Robert M. Youngson 2004, 2005

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References in periodicals archive

The portrayal of womanhood in terms of mystery and the forbidden recurs: "I was witch and I could be / Bird or leaf / Or branch and bark of tree." In "Untitled," "full moons froth with my / And witches' milk." Sometimes dangerous invitations seep into unexpected poems.

The Essential Anne Wilkinson

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