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Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding for at least one year during your life may modestly reduce your risk of breast cancer.
This one-year can be for one child - or more than one. So, for example, breastfeeding two children for 6 months each would give the same degree of protection against breast cancer as breastfeeding one child for one year. The longer a woman breastfeeds, the greater the reduction in her risk of breast cancer.
There are many important benefits associated with breastfeeding for both mother and child. The Department of Health recommends that women breastfeed for the first six months of an infant's life as it provides all the nutrients a baby needs. Breakthrough believes that the decision to breastfeed needs to be a personal one, and women themselves should decide if, when and for how long they breastfeed their children.
Breastfeeding women should examine their breasts for any unusual changes. It is common for breasts to be lumpy during breastfeeding, but if you notice anything unusual or have any concerns, these should be checked by a doctor
For more information see our fact sheet Breastfeeding and Breast Cancer Risk: The Facts.
There are many important benefits associated with breastfeeding for both mother and child. The Department of Health recommends that women breastfeed for the first six months of an infant's life as it provides all the nutrients a baby needs. Breakthrough believes that the decision to breastfeed needs to be a personal one, and women themselves should decide if, when and for how long they breastfeed their children.
Breastfeeding women should examine their breasts for any unusual changes. It is common for breasts to be lumpy during breastfeeding, but if you notice anything unusual or have any concerns, these should be checked by a doctor
For more information see our fact sheet Breastfeeding and Breast Cancer Risk: The Facts.
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