The benefits of breastfeeding are well documented. Breastfed babies have a lower risk of developing serious medical conditions, including asthma, diabetes, allergies, and future cancers. But the perks of breastfeeding aren’t limited to newborns. Moms can experience some potentially life-altering benefits from breastfeeding – specifically a reduced risk of breast cancer. Because October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Pumps for Mom is sharing some important facts about breast cancer and how breastfeeding can contribute to breast cancer prevention. Read below to learn more about how breastfeeding helps reduce the risk of breast cancer.
Facts About Breast Cancer
Breast cancer is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers and is a leading cause of death from cancer among women in the United States. 1 in 8 women in the U.S. will develop breast cancer at some point in their life, and in 2020, and it is estimated that approximately 30% of all new cancer diagnoses for women will be breast cancer. Because of the seriousness and prevalence of breast cancer, organizations and scientists all over the world are continuing to search for relevant risk factors or preventative actions that could help protect women from this disease. There are many different kinds of breast cancer associated with various risk factors, although some research suggests that certain types of breast cancer may be related to the amount of estrogen in women’s bodies.
Breastfeeding and Breast Cancer Prevention
The changes that occur in a woman’s body during pregnancy and breastfeeding, notably a reduced amount of estrogen, may make cells less likely to become cancerous. Scientists have found that being pregnant has certain protective benefits, but breastfeeding lowers the risk of pre- and post-menopausal breast cancer more significantly than pregnancy alone. To take full advantage of the protective benefits of breastfeeding, the American Institute for Cancer Research and the World Health Organization states that mothers should breastfeed exclusively for at least six months. However, mothers can further reduce their breast cancer risk if they continue breastfeeding past six months. Specifically, breastfeeding continuously for 12 months or longer is associated with a 28% lower risk of breast cancer, compared to only a 14% lower risk for women who breastfeed for a shorter amount of time.
Tips for Exclusive Breastfeeding
Pumps for Mom knows how challenging it can be to stick to exclusive breastfeeding for six months, much less continuing to breastfeed for a full year or more after giving birth. Because breastfeeding can be tiring, our team is passionate about making it as easy as possible to breastfeed. Using a breast pump is one of the easiest ways moms can enjoy more flexibility and comfort as they continue on their breastfeeding journey. From helping establish a reliable breast milk supply to making it possible for non-breastfeeding parents to share feeding responsibilities, breast pumps make it easier for moms to continue breastfeeding for as long as possible.
Breast cancer is an unfortunate reality for millions of families across the globe. But with progressing research and continued awareness, we are getting closer to finding a cure for breast cancer. Our team is proud to support efforts like breastfeeding that can help moms reduce their risk of breast cancer.
Pumps for Mom is here to do everything we can to make breastfeeding moms’ lives easier. And with our wide range of breast pumps through insurance, moms can get their high-quality breast pump without breaking the bank. Our experts streamline the process, and our simple qualification form makes it possible for moms to see exactly which insurance breast pumps are included with their coverage. Take advantage of the benefits of breastfeeding with an insurance breast pump from Pumps for Mom.