For many new mothers, breastfeeding is celebrated for its benefits to newborns, but research also suggests it may offer long-term support for a woman’s heart health. A growing body of evidence shows associations between breastfeeding and lower risk of cardiovascular disease, stroke, and heart-related mortality. In honor of National Breastfeeding Month and World Breastfeeding Week (Aug 1–7), it’s worth recognizing how lactation may contribute to maternal cardiovascular well-being.
1. The Evidence: Global Studies on Breastfeeding and Heart Health
A landmark meta‑analysis in the Journal of the American Heart Association, covering nearly 1.2 million women, found that women who ever breastfed had an 11% lower risk of developing cardiovascular disease compared to those who never did. Over roughly a 10‑year follow-up, breastfeeding was associated with:
- 14% lower risk of coronary heart disease,
- 12% lower risk of stroke,
- 17% lower risk of cardiovascular death. (1)
Other observational studies now suggest that longer cumulative duration of lactation (e.g., ≥6 or 12 months) may lead to even greater risk reduction, although the benefits plateau after a certain point. (2)
2. Why Does Breastfeeding Protect the Heart?
Multiple biological mechanisms may explain the connection:
- Improved metabolic reset: Lactation enhances glucose and lipid metabolism postpartum, helping to reduce long-term risks of insulin resistance, hypertension, and obesity—all factors linked to heart disease. (3)
- Lower blood pressure: Women who breastfeed for six months or longer have been shown to have lower systolic and diastolic blood pressure years later. (4)
- Reduced inflammation: Breastfeeding may help resolve pregnancy-induced inflammation and reset cardiovascular risk markers for healthier recovery postpartum. (5)
- Hormonal benefits: Prolactin and oxytocin, key lactation hormones, are linked to reduced anxiety, lower stress responses, and better cardiovascular regulation.
3. Heart Benefits Across Lifetimes
While research emphasizes the cumulative duration of breastfeeding, even shorter periods appear beneficial. The global analysis found heart and stroke reductions across diverse populations, including Asia, Europe, Australia, and the U.S.. (6)
Importantly, breastfeeding benefits are independent of other lifestyle factors: even after adjusting for postpartum weight retention, socioeconomic status, and activity levels, the protective effects persisted. (7)
4. What Women Should Know, and What It Doesn’t Mean
If breastfeeding wasn’t possible or chosen, it’s important to know you’re not doomed to a poor heart outcome. Breastfeeding is one of many lifestyle and clinical steps that support heart health, but not breastfeeding does not necessarily guarantee higher risk.
Still, if you are currently pregnant or postpartum and considering breastfeeding, there is clear evidence that it may benefit both you and your child in the long run. Encouraging policies like workplace accommodations, peer support, and education can make a difference.
5. Supporting Maternal Heart Health, Whatever Path You Choose
Whether or not you breastfeed, there are actionable steps to support your cardiovascular well‑being:
- Track and manage blood pressure and cholesterol levels after pregnancy.
- Engage in regular physical activity and aim for balanced nutrition.
- Ask for support and share your breastfeeding or postpartum concerns with trusted healthcare providers.
- Explore peer support with WomenHeart Champions, SisterMatch, or Heart Sisters for community and encouragement.
Explore WomenHeart’s resources for women’s heart health, community support, and tools for caregiving hearts, whether you’re postpartum or on a lifelong heart journey.
Moving Toward a More Equitable Future
The gender gap in heart health is not inevitable. It is the result of decades of systemic bias, and that means it can be changed with collective action.
By updating clinical guidelines, improving provider education, advancing policy reform, and supporting patient advocacy, we can build a future where all women receive the timely, accurate, and life-saving care they deserve.
WomenHeart remains committed to leading this charge through education, community, and a national voice for women living with heart disease. The time for action is now.
