What New Moms and Moms-to-Be Need to Know about Breast Cancer

"Breast is best" is a common mantra for feeding your baby. It is also thought to be a good deterrent for breast cancer.

While this is another issue that needs more research, nursing your baby can reduce your risk of breast cancer. And the longer you breastfeed, the lower your risk. One study has shown that women who breastfed for a (lifetime) total of one year were less likely to develop breast cancer than those who never breastfed. Those who nursed their babies for a (lifetime) total of two years doubled their benefits.

"Considering the research and the other benefits to the mother and child, most health professionals recommend nursing," says Dr. Partridge.