Does breastfeeding protect against other cancers, too?

Yes, research suggests that apart from breast cancer, breastfeeding may also lower the risk of ovarian and endometrial cancer.

Does breastfeeding prevent breast cancer completely?

No, breastfeeding does not prevent breast cancer completely. However, it can reduce the risk.

Breastfeeding and Breast Cancer Risk: How Nursing Protects Mothers

Breastfeeding is a beautiful yet tough journey. As a new mum, your body is already doing a lot. Breastfeeding is an act of love and care. While the benefits of breastfeeding for the baby are widely discussed, not many people talk about the benefits of breastfeeding for mums. Yes, weight loss is a part of it in some cases, but that’s not all breastfeeding does for mothers. Research shows that breastfeeding lowers the risk of breast cancer as well. Understanding how this works can help mothers see breastfeeding not just as nourishment for their child, but also as preventive healthcare for themselves.

While breastfeeding offers many benefits, it’s also important to remember that it’s a personal choice. Every mother’s journey is different. Many reasons, such as medical, emotional, or practical, can make it difficult to breastfeed, and it is absolutely OKAY. No mother should feel less or guilty for choosing not to breastfeed.

How Breastfeeding Protects You?

When you breastfeed, your body goes through certain changes. These changes help safeguard breast health.

Fewer menstrual cycles and lower hormone exposure

When you breastfeed, your body naturally delays the return of your regular menstrual (period) cycles. This reduces your lifetime exposure to hormones such as oestrogen, a hormone which is linked to promoting cancer cell growth in the breasts.

Protective changes in breast tissue

Breastfeeding changes your breast cells, making them stronger and less likely to turn cancerous. Also, when you breastfeed, some cells from the lining of your breast ducts naturally shed. This process may help remove cells that might have been damaged or could later cause cancer.

Hormonal and immune system benefits

Breastfeeding also triggers hormonal and immune changes that may add to its protective effect. For example, breastfeeding promotes the production of oxytocin, a hormone linked to tissue repair and stress reduction. Some studies suggest that oxytocin may have anti-tumour properties. Breastfeeding also influences immune regulation in breast tissue, supporting the removal of abnormal cells.

What does Research say about Breastfeeding and Breast Cancer Risk?

2013 Meta-Analysis (in the Asia-Pacific Journal of Public Health), this study reviewed 32 research papers. It found that women who breastfed had an 11% lower risk of breast cancer. The benefit increased to 28% for those who breastfed for 12 months or more.
2015 Meta-Analysis, this research showed similar findings. Breastfeeding for over 12 months reduced the risk of breast cancer by 26% and ovarian cancer by 37%.
According to a 2024 review in Medicine, breastfeeding helps lower the risk of hormone receptor (HR)-negative breast cancers, particularly in women who breastfeed for a longer duration.
Another study showed that in women who carry the BRCA1 gene mutation (which raises breast cancer risk), breastfeeding for at least one year reduced risk by about 32%.

How Long Do You Need to Breastfeed to See the Benefits?

The American Institute for Cancer Research and the World Health Organisation recommend exclusive breastfeeding for at least six months. This means that your baby should get only breast milk for six months of their life.

What are the Other Benefits of Breastfeeding?

In addition to lowering the risk of breast cancer, breastfeeding offers several other long-term health benefits for mothers.

1. Weight Management
Breastfeeding helps the body burn extra calories. This helps in gradually returning to pre-pregnancy weight. The energy used to produce milk supports healthy postpartum metabolism.
NOTE: While breastfeeding helps burn calories, postpartum weight loss also depends on factors like diet and sleep.

2. Reduced Risk of Chronic Diseases
Women who breastfeed are less likely to develop type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease later in life. The hormonal balance and improved glucose metabolism during lactation contribute to these benefits.
NOTE: Breastfeeding may lower the risk of certain health conditions, but it does not guarantee prevention. Always follow your doctor’s advice for long-term health management.

3. Emotional Well-Being
Breastfeeding releases oxytocin and prolactin. These hormones promote relaxation and relieve stress. They also help with emotional bonding. This can help lower the risk of postpartum anxiety and depression.
NOTE: Breastfeeding may support emotional health, but it doesn’t prevent all cases of postpartum anxiety or depression. If you feel persistent sadness or anxiety, please reach out to your healthcare provider.

How to Make the Breastfeeding Journey Easy?

While there are many benefits of breastfeeding, it can sometimes be challenging. However, having the right support and guidance can make a huge difference in this journey. To make your breastfeeding journey easier, here’s what you can do:

Seek help early - If you experience pain, difficulty latching, or concerns about milk supply, consult a lactation consultant or your healthcare provider. Early intervention helps prevent complications and builds confidence.
Create a supportive environment - Family members, especially partners, play an important role. Sharing household responsibilities, ensuring rest, and providing emotional support help mothers sustain breastfeeding longer.
Be patient with the process - Breastfeeding takes practice. Each mother-baby pair learns at its own pace. It is normal for feeding patterns to change as your baby grows.
Celebrate progress, not perfection - Whether you choose to breastfeed, pump, or combine breastfeeding with formula, you are doing your best. You should not feel guilty for your choices.
Recognise individual choices - Not every mother can or chooses to breastfeed, and that decision does not diminish her care for her child. Breastfeeding is a personal choice influenced by many factors. The goal is to support informed and guilt-free decisions for all mothers.

Breastfeeding offers long-term health benefits to the baby and the mum. By breastfeeding, mothers lower their risk of breast and ovarian cancers, support emotional well-being, and promote overall wellness. However, it’s essential to remember that breastfeeding is a personal choice, not a measure of motherhood. Every woman’s body and circumstances are unique.

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FAQs on Breastfeeding and Reduced Breast Cancer Risk

Does breastfeeding protect against other cancers, too?
Yes, research suggests that apart from breast cancer, breastfeeding may also lower the risk of ovarian and endometrial cancer.
Does breastfeeding prevent breast cancer completely?
No, breastfeeding does not prevent breast cancer completely. However, it can reduce the risk.