Here's a fact that might surprise you: breastfeeding can reduce the risk of Breast Cancer!

Breastfeeding has been found to reduce the risk of developing breast cancer with the risk reducing the longer you breastfeed for.

Why? Studies still haven't concluded exactly the reason for this relationship but it's believed it may have something to do with:

• The reduction in ovulation while breastfeeding (exclusive breastfeeding I.e. when done responsively and without supplementing with other forms of feeding, acts as a natural contraceptive by preventing ovulation)

• The changes to the cells in the breast tissue when breastfeeding 

According to an academic article by Britta Stordel, published earlier this year:

"A large meta‐analysis of 47 studies from 30 countries examined the impact of breastfeeding on breast‐cancer risk. 38 The relative risk of breast cancer decreased by 4.3% for every 12 months of breastfeeding, which was in addition to the 7.0% decrease in risk observed for each birth".

And this reduced risk as a result of breastfeeding was seen across high and low income countries, maternal ages, ethnic groups and more! 

In conclusion: breastfeeding continues to blow my mind at every turn. I love having the opportunity to support parents in their feeding journeys knowing the benefits that it provides for both baby and mum.