Does breastfeeding really reduce the risk of ovarian cancer?

Ovarian cancer is a serious disease that can affect women, but did you know that breastfeeding can reduce its risk? In this article, let's learn in detail from a doctor how breastfeeding can protect women from ovarian cancer.

Did you know that breastfeeding is beneficial not only for the baby but also for the mother's health? It provides nutrition and immunity to the baby, while also helping the mother protect against many serious diseases. Research and experts believe that breastfeeding can significantly reduce the risk of ovarian cancer in women.

Breastfeeding acts as a natural protective factor. It helps maintain hormonal balance in women, temporarily delays menstruation, and reduces stress on the ovaries. This is why breastfeeding women have a lower risk of cancer. Renowned gynecologist Dr. Sarika, Director of Gynecological Action Cancer Hospital in New Delhi, will explain the risk factors for ovarian cancer and the protective role of breastfeeding.

What are the risk factors for ovarian cancer?

• Age: The risk increases after 40 years of age, and the highest number of cases are seen at an average age of 65 years.
• Family history – If someone in the family has had breast cancer or ovarian cancer, the risk is higher.
• Not having children – Women who have not had children may be at increased risk.
• Not breastfeeding – Women who did not breastfeed have been found to be at higher risk.
• Fertility treatments – Taking medications to help you conceive may increase your risk somewhat.
• Obesity – Excess weight is also a risk factor.

How does breastfeeding reduce the risk of ovarian cancer?

• To understand this, we need to understand some of the main risk factors for ovarian cancer. The primary cause of ovarian cancer is the ovulation process. When a woman becomes pregnant or breastfeeds, periods and ovulation stop for a period of time. This gives the ovaries a break. This rest gives the ovarian cells time to repair themselves, reducing the risk of developing abnormal cells.
• Breastfeeding improves the hormonal balance of the body and keeps estrogen levels under control.

The risk of ovarian cancer is found to be significantly lower in women who breastfeed their child for 6 months or more.

Other factors that may reduce the risk of ovarian cancer

Dr. Gupta also mentioned some other factors that can help reduce the risk of ovarian cancer .

• Pregnancy – Women who have children have a lower risk of ovarian cancer. Periods also stop during pregnancy, which reduces stress on the ovaries.
• Oral contraceptives – Women who take oral contraceptive pills for more than 5 years have also been found to have a lower risk of ovarian cancer.

Tubal Ligation – Having a sterilization procedure can also reduce the risk of ovarian cancer, as this procedure involves tying the fallopian tubes, blocking the path from the ovaries to the uterus.

Tubectomy – Women who have had their tubes removed through surgery also have a reduced risk of ovarian cancer.

However, not all of these risk factors apply to every woman. Sometimes, women can develop ovarian cancer without any obvious risk factors. Therefore, if you experience frequent bloating, pelvic pain, loss of appetite, or feeling full quickly, consult a doctor immediately.

It's important to note that these factors only reduce your risk, not guarantee 100% protection. Ovarian cancer can be caused by many other factors, some of which are not yet fully understood. However, by making lifestyle changes and adopting medical measures, you can take a big step toward reducing your risk of this serious disease.

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