Are you a breastfeeding mom?
Guess what? Breastfeeding helps lower your risk of breast cancer!
Breastfeeding is truly an act of necessary selflessness, even if our bodies are designed for it. For many mothers, it is challenging and can be exhausting as your baby often wants milk on demand. Breastfeeding provides many health advantages for your baby, and therefore it is highly encouraged.
We talk a lot about breastfeeding and how beneficial it is for babies, but what about moms?
Women who nurse for a year or more are highly likely to lower their chances of getting breast cancer. It is a life-changing fact. According to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation, “Breast cancer is the most common cancer worldwide – surpassing lung cancer for the first time in 2020 – and the most common cancer diagnosed in American women.”
Some factors out of our control contribute to breast cancer diagnoses but performing an act that our bodies develop naturally seems worthwhile to decrease women’s chances.
I’m sure you’re wondering how breastfeeding lessens the risk of breast cancer so let’s discuss:
- It reduces menstrual cycles on top of the nine months spent gestating a baby, which lowers estrogen levels—one of the leading causes of breast cancer.
- The increase in milk production makes breast cells less likely to develop into cancer cells.
- Women pay closer attention to their diets and live healthier lifestyles while breastfeeding.
*Above information can be found at www.breastcancer.org
As stated earlier, breastfeeding is not always an easy task. Seeking help from a lactation consultant or doula can change the trajectory of your nursing experience. Ask your provider or join a local program such as Black Mothers United to aid you on your journey.
Any mother who desires to breastfeed should have a fair chance at it. The resources are available, and the opportunity for a healthy life for you and your baby is worth it.