- Women who breastfeed may have a greater chance of long-term heart health.
- More research is needed to understand why breastfeeding may boost cardiovascular health.
- It helps to have normal high blood pressure during pregnancy.
You've probably heard about the many health benefits that babies get from breastfeeding. But research indicates it also has a valuable benefit for mothers' health, too.
A study found that mothers who breastfeed their babies may have increased heart health compared to women who don't breastfeed. One of the more noteworthy aspects of these findings is that the cardiac benefits are long-term — the 678 women in the study were assessed an average of 11 years after they were breastfeeding.
The women were measured in key areas for cardiovascular health: cholesterol, blood pressure, triglycerides, and the thickness and diameter of the carotid arteries, the vessels that carry blood from the heart to the brain.
It was found that women who breastfed for at least six months — the minimum amount of time recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics — had lower levels of triglycerides, higher amounts of good HDL cholesterol and their carotid arteries were in better shape.
It's important to note, however, that women who experienced cardiovascular benefits also had normal blood pressure during pregnancy. Women with elevated blood pressure levels did not report the same benefits. These heart-healthy outcomes complement an earlier study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association, which found breastfeeding can lower the risk of stroke for some postmenopausal women.
The research findings, presented at the American College of Cardiology's 67th Annual Scientific Session, also noted that, as of now, there's no specific known reason for why breastfeeding has a seemingly positive impact on heart health in mothers.
The study authors posited that it may be due to the flood of oxytocin during breastfeeding, and this hormone can help lower blood pressure. It may also be due to the fact that many breastfeeding women adhere to healthy diets, which would also be beneficial to their cardiovascular health. Or it may be that women who breastfeed have a better chance of losing their pregnancy weight more quickly, and a healthy weight is good protection against heart disease.
Whatever the reason, it's yet another incentive for women to consider breastfeeding their babies.
For mom's looking for products that will make life as a parent a little easier, the Women’s Boutique at Providence Alaska Medical Center has a variety of items for the pregnancy, breastfeeding, and postpartum journeys.
For example, the boutique sells nursing, pumping, and sleep bras designed to be comfortable and functional. A well-made and fitted nursing bra can be beneficial for breast health. Good support during this time can help reduce the risk of ligament damage, milk duct damage, and improve your back and shoulder comfort.
Located in the main lobby across from the PAMC gift shop, the boutique is open 10 am.–5 p.m. Monday-Friday. For more information and questions about products, please call (907) 212-5886.
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