Maternal influences on the glucocorticoid concentrations of human milk: The STEPS study.

HM contains glucocorticoids hormones. The concentrations are influenced by the varying maternal factors including maternal weight, preterm birth and maternal educational status, suggesting the possible role of maternal biological and social influences on milk hormonal composition. Interestingly, there was no influence of feeding patterns on HM glucocorticoids. Further analysis is required to fully explore the relationship with measures of maternal stress, including mother's glucocorticoid status.