Notice: Function _load_textdomain_just_in_time was called incorrectly. Translation loading for the ona domain was triggered too early. This is usually an indicator for some code in the plugin or theme running too early. Translations should be loaded at the init action or later. Please see Debugging in WordPress for more information. (This message was added in version 6.7.0.) in /home/risezcom/public_html/cord-blood.org.uk/wp-includes/functions.php on line 6170
The Benefits of Breastfeeding for Women and Their Children's Health - Cord Blood

Cord Blood

and Stem Cell Banking

The Benefits of Breastfeeding for Women and Their Children’s Health

Happy glowing mother and baby

Breastfeeding is an important practice that offers numerous advantages for both mothers and children, including a reduced risk of future cardiovascular disease. A new observational cohort study aims to examine the impact of breastfeeding for at least six months on the cardiometabolic health of women and their children at age three. The study specifically focuses on mothers who may have experienced pregnancy complications that increase the risk of cardiovascular disease for both themselves and their children.

The Study

The researchers invited women and children who participated in the Screening Tests to Predict Poor Outcomes of Pregnancy (STOP) study from 2015 to 2017 to undergo a health check-up when the children reached three years old. The study assessed the mothers’ breastfeeding status based on their child health records, specifically looking for breastfeeding duration of at least six months. Measurements of weight, blood pressure, and other factors were taken from both the mothers and their children.

The results of the study showed that women who breastfed for at least six months had better cardiometabolic health compared to those who did not breastfeed. These women had lower body mass index (BMI), systolic and diastolic blood pressure, mean arterial pressure, central systolic blood pressure, and central diastolic blood pressure. These findings remained even after considering factors such as BMI, socioeconomic index in early pregnancy, prenatal smoking, and maternal age in early pregnancy.

Additionally, when analyzing women who experienced pregnancy complications (such as preeclampsia, gestational hypertension, delivering a small for gestational age infant, preterm delivery, or gestational diabetes mellitus), those who breastfed for at least six months showed even more significant improvements in their cardiovascular risk factors. These women had lower blood pressure, insulin, and triglyceride levels, as well as higher levels of HDL cholesterol.

Interestingly, there were no noticeable differences in the anthropometric or hemodynamic variables of the children at three years old, regardless of whether they were breastfed for at least six months or not.

Summary

This study highlights the potential benefits of breastfeeding for at least six months in reducing cardiovascular risk factors in women at three years postpartum, particularly for those who experienced pregnancy complications. Although there were no significant impacts on the children’s health at three years old, breastfeeding remains an important practice that offers numerous advantages for both mother and child.