Breastfeeding has many health benefits for both mother and baby. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), women who breastfeed have a lower risk of breast and ovarian cancer.

This is especially important because breast cancer has a very high mortality rate among women.

New mothers are encouraged to breastfeed to keep their babies healthy and to protect themselves from breast cancer.

According to the National Family Health Survey (NFHS) 4 and 5, only 55% of children are exclusively breastfed (the baby receives only breast milk, no other liquids or solids are given).

According to Dr Nitin Gupte, gynaecologist at Pune-based Apollo Spectra, breastfeeding reduces the risk of breast cancer as hormonal changes occur during breastfeeding, which can reduce lifelong exposure to oestrogen, the hormone linked to breast cancer.

Dr Mrinal Parab, surgical oncologist at TGH-Onco Life Cancer Centre, said breastfeeding promotes the maturation of milk-producing cells and destroys damaged cells before they turn into tumours.

“Breastfeeding women often maintain a balanced lifestyle that includes a nutritious diet and regular physical activity, which further reduces their risk of cancer,” Dr. Parab said.

The expert advised women to exclusively breastfeed their babies for the first 8-10 months.

Symptoms of breast cancer include lumps in the breast tissue, changes in breast size and shape, inverted nipples, and discharge from the nipple.

Dr Prasad Kulat, senior obstetrician and gynaecologist at Ankura Hospital, said mothers who breastfeed for at least six months have a reduced risk of pre- and postmenopausal breast cancer.

“Breastfeeding causes hormonal changes that delay menstruation, reducing exposure to estrogen, which is linked to breast cancer. Women’s breast tissue also sheds during breastfeeding, removing cells with DNA damage, which may prevent cancer,” Dr. Kulat said.

Although breastfeeding significantly reduces the risk of breast cancer, it is not a guarantee of prevention.

Women should seek assistance from a lactation specialist to ensure an adequate milk supply and consider using a breast pump if necessary.

Apart from cancer prevention, breastfeeding strengthens the bond between mother and baby and enhances their overall health.

“Breastfed babies have a lower risk of asthma, obesity, ear and respiratory infections, sudden infant death syndrome and gastrointestinal infections such as diarrhoea. For mothers, breastfeeding can prevent high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases and breast and ovarian cancer,” said Dr Nitin Gupte, gynaecologist at Apollo Spectra in Pune.

Experts recommend exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months, followed by complementary feeding along with breastfeeding for at least another six months.