As a Certified Breastfeeding Counselor, you are likely keenly aware of breastfeeding benefits for lactating parents. However, it is always helpful to be reminded of why our work is so important. While breastfeeding is natural, it can take quite a bit of work and a lot of commitment. When we understand why it is worth the effort, it makes things a bit easier.

When clients ask about reasons to breastfeed, especially when they are experiencing a challenge, it is important we can help them understand the benefits. We do not state benefits in a way which makes them feel bad should they be unable to continue breastfeeding. However, it is important we help parents understand why breastfeeding is important not only for baby but for the parent as well.

Breastfeeding is the physiological next step following a pregnancy. Not breastfeeding or abruptly ceasing early in the postpartum period can have risks. It is important we help parents understand the benefits of the next step following a pregnancy and the risks of not doing so. Again, not in a way which makes a parent feel bad or fearful, but in a way which helps them make informed decisions and understand the reason it can be worth working through challenges.

Breastfeeding Benefits Include a Reduced Risk of Breast and Ovarian Cancers

Research shows that women who breastfeed have a lower risk of pre and post menopausal breast and ovarian cancers. The more a woman breastfeeds throughout her life, the lower her overall risk of developing breast or ovarian cancer.

Breastfeeding reduces one’s lifetime exposure to estrogen. A 2020 study approximately 10,000 women with ovarian cancer found that breastfeeding was associated with a 24% lower risk.

Breastfeeding Lowers The Risk of Developing High Blood Pressure and Type 2 Diabetes

While the hormones associated with the placenta during pregnancy influence blood glucose levels in a way which can lead to gestational diabetes, the hormones during lactation are quite the opposite.

The hormones released during lactation help the body process glucose and insulin more effectively. This works to help reduce the overall risk of developing Type 2 diabetes even later in life.

A 2011 study in the American Journal of Epidemiology found that women who breastfed for six months had lower blood pressure compared to their peers who formula fed.

Breastfeeding Can Reduce The Likelihood of Pregnancy and Prevent a Period

Breastfeeding can cause lactation amenorrhea, or stop one from ovulating and having a period. The hormones released while breastfeeding frequently prevent ovulation during the first six months of breastfeeding if one is exclusively breastfeeding.

However, it is important to note that one can absolutely become pregnant while breastfeeding. However, some parents aim to try the Lactation Amenorrhea Method as birth control which can be quite effective. It is only effective as birth control if the baby is under 6 months, one’s period has not returned, and feeds are occurring overnight as well.

As a Certified Breastfeeding Counselor, you can share information about LAM but you should never tell clients they cannot become pregnant while breastfeeding. Unfortunately, some doctors still tell this to parents who will later be shocked when they find themselves pregnant.

While LAM is effective, every body is unique. Parents need to be feeding exclusively at the breast, including overnight, and limited pacifier use. If it is something a client is interested in using only LAM, they should discuss the option with their midwife or doctor.

Breastfeeding Releases Oxytocin and Can Help With Stress

It might seem impossible that something which can be stressful, navigating breastfeeding, has the potential to manage stress levels. However, breastfeeding releases oxytocin which is often referred to as the ‘feel good’ hormone.

Many who breastfeed find themselves feeling relaxed a few minutes into the feed thanks to the hormone oxytocin. While oxytocin cannot combat all of life’s stressors, it can help reduce stress levels and provide a feeling of positivity.

Occasionally, parents might experience the opposite, such as D-MER, or if they have a negative association with breastfeeding (painful latching, history of trauma, etc.). However, most parents find the release of oxytocin provides a bit of a boost to help navigate the stress of early parenthood.

Breastfeeding Benefits Include Helping The Uterus Return Back to Normal Size and Reduce the Risk of a Postpartum Hemorrhage

Not only is oxytocin a feel-good hormone, it is the hormone that causes uterine contractions, even after birth. This helps the uterus cramp down and reduce the risk of hemorrhage. Along with reducing the risk of heavy bleeding in early postpartum, it continues to help for several weeks in getting the uterus back to its typical size.

As a CBC, you know these are some of the benefits of breastfeeding. You can use this information to help clients make informed decisions and work through when it’s difficult.