Breastfeeding and pregnancy

Breastfeeding has a mildly protective effect against breast cancer, and that effect grows the longer you breastfeed. While you are breastfeeding, your hormone balance shifts and your breast tissue goes through changes that can lower your risk a little.

This is not a guarantee, and it is not a reason to feel pressured. Not every woman can or wants to breastfeed, and that is completely okay. It is simply one of several small factors.

What matters more for prevention is what holds true in every stage of life: knowing your body, taking changes seriously, and keeping your screening appointments. What you can really influence in daily life