Breastfeeding is a natural, nurturing experience that offers many benefits to both mother and baby. Not only does it provide essential nutrients, but it has also been shown to have important effects on health, including reducing the risk of certain cancers.
To find out more, we spoke to expert Dr Lakshmi Devi, Consultant Obstetrician (OBG), Kinder Hospital, Bangalore, about the five questions you should ask your doctor about the link between breastfeeding and cancer risk . Understanding the evidence and discussing your specific situation with a medical professional can help you make an informed decision about breastfeeding and the potential benefits it can have on your overall health.
1. Does breastfeeding reduce the risk of breast cancer?
“Yes, breastfeeding is associated with a lower risk of breast cancer. Studies have shown that the longer a woman breastfeeds, the lower her risk of breast cancer,” Dr. Devi replies. This protective effect is thought to be due to several factors, including the hormonal changes that occur during breastfeeding and the fact that breastfeeding may reduce the risk of obesity, a known risk factor for breast cancer.
2. How long is breastfeeding recommended to reduce the risk of cancer?
“While any amount of breast milk is beneficial, studies have found that breastfeeding for at least six months is especially effective at reducing the risk of breast cancer,” she adds. Each year you continue to breastfeed further reduces your risk of breast cancer. However, even shorter periods of breastfeeding may offer some protection.
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3. How does breastfeeding reduce a child’s risk of cancer?
“Breastfeeding helps protect your child from obesity later in life. Research shows that obesity is a risk factor for several types of cancer, including breast cancer. Breastfeeding contributes to a child’s overall health by providing essential nutrients and promoting healthy growth, which can reduce the risk of cancer,” said Dr. Devi. Additionally, breastfeeding helps regulate a baby’s appetite and insulin levels, which may also play a role in preventing obesity and related health problems.
4. Can women with a history of breast cancer breastfeed?
“Whether a woman with a history of breast cancer can safely breastfeed depends on a variety of factors, including the type of cancer, how advanced the disease is, and the specific treatment used. It’s important to talk with your doctor to determine if breastfeeding is a safe and appropriate option for you. In some cases, certain precautions may be needed, such as avoiding nursing from the affected breast and monitoring your breasts for changes.”
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5. Does cancer treatment affect breastfeeding?
Cancer treatments can affect breastfeeding in different ways. According to a study published in NCBI, while surgical treatments don’t usually affect breastfeeding, chemotherapy can affect breast milk production or cause side effects that make breastfeeding difficult. If you’re undergoing cancer treatment, it’s important to talk to your doctor about the potential effects on breastfeeding. In some cases, breastfeeding can be continued with proper monitoring and support. Finally, there are resources to help women with cancer who want to breastfeed, including lactation consultants who specialize in supporting cancer patients.
in conclusion
If you have an upcoming doctor’s appointment and aren’t sure what to ask about breastfeeding and cancer, these questions can help you make an informed decision about breastfeeding and its potential benefits for both you and your baby.
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