This is a common question women have about breastfeeding, which has many positive health effects for both baby and mother.
Charissa Etrheim, MD, explains the research and how it plays into your overall risk.
“Strong studies suggest breastfeeding can also help lower a woman’s risk of breast cancer, especially hard-to-treat triple negative cancers,” said Etrheim, Avera family medicine provider and breast expert with the High Risk Breast Clinic located in Mitchell, SD.
According to the National Library of Medicine, the risk of breast cancer is reduced by 4.3% for every 12 months of breastfeeding. This is in addition to the 7% decrease in risk observed for each birth.
“There’s a lot of hormonal changes going on,” said Etrheim. “Your periods cease as well as slow down during pregnancy and breastfeeding.”
How Hormonal Changes Affect Cancer Risk
The less your breasts (and ovaries) are exposed to certain hormones, like estrogen, the greater the reduction of risk you might have toward these cancers.
“Other ways a woman can reduce her risk is living a healthy lifestyle: not smoking, limiting alcohol, maintaining an ideal weight for her frame, exercising and eating well,” said Etrheim. “These small habits add up to overall wellness.”
Breastfeeding is a powerhouse preventive for women who are able to do so. A lactation consultant can help help new mothers with breastfeeding and answer common questions.
As you age, the best preventive measure you can take for breast cancer is to get your yearly mammogram starting at age 40.
Am I High Risk for Breast Cancer?
Read about what puts you at higher risk for breast cancer, as well as how Avera’s High Risk Breast Clinics help you manage your risk.
