Breastfeeding has long been known for its benefits to both mother and child. A new study published in BMC Public Health adds another potential advantage: delaying natural menopause and reducing the risks of early surgical menopause and indeterminate menopause.
Study Overview
Researchers examined data from 19,783 women aged 40 to 65 in Alberta’s Tomorrow Project, a Canadian community-based cohort study conducted between 2000 and 2022. The study explored the connection between the lifetime duration of breastfeeding and the timing and type of menopause.
Key Findings
The study categorized lifetime breastfeeding duration into five groups:
- Less than 1 month (reference group).
- 1–3 months.
- 4–6 months.
- 7–12 months.
- 13 months or more (37.7% of participants).
Women were classified into three menopause types:
- Natural menopause: 1 year after the last menstrual period.
- Surgical menopause: Menopause due to bilateral oophorectomy (removal of ovaries).
- Indeterminate menopause: Menopause following hysterectomy with ovarian preservation.
How Breastfeeding Affects Menopause
The results showed a dose-response relationship, meaning the longer a woman breastfed, the greater the benefits:
- Natural Menopause: Women who breastfed for 13 months or more had a 32% lower risk of reaching menopause before age 50.
- Surgical Menopause: A 44% lower risk of surgical menopause before age 55 was observed in women with longer breastfeeding durations.
- Indeterminate Menopause: Breastfeeding for 13 months or more reduced the risk of indeterminate menopause by 25%.
Why Does Breastfeeding Matter?
Breastfeeding influences hormonal regulation in a mother’s body, which may explain the delayed onset of menopause. Lower estrogen levels during lactation may protect against ovarian aging and reduce the risk of surgical interventions.
Implications for Women’s Health
This study highlights breastfeeding as a potential factor in improving women’s long-term reproductive health. By delaying menopause and reducing the risk of early surgical or indeterminate menopause, women may benefit from extended hormone-related protection against conditions like osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease.
Takeaways for Doctors
- Advocate for Breastfeeding: Encourage mothers to breastfeed for longer durations where possible, as it may offer long-term reproductive health benefits.
- Educate on Hormonal Health: Explain how breastfeeding can influence menopause timing and reduce risks of early surgical interventions.
- Integrate Research in Counseling: Use this study to inform patients about the potential maternal health benefits of breastfeeding.
Conclusion
This study adds to the growing list of benefits associated with breastfeeding. Beyond nurturing infants, breastfeeding may optimize the timing of natural menopause, reduce risks of surgical menopause, and improve overall maternal health.
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