How childbirth and breastfeeding may protect against breast cancer
New Aussie research shows that pregnancy and breastfeeding don’t just nurture new life, they may also help your body fight back against breast cancer. Proof that a mother’s body really is amazing.
A new Australian study has found that childbirth and breastfeeding may help protect women against aggressive forms of breast cancer, thanks to immune changes that last long after pregnancy. For the approximately 20,000 Australians diagnosed each year, this discovery sheds light on the long-term health benefits of motherhood.
With over a decade of experience in neonatal care and lactation consulting and as a mum of four, Courtney Garland, Neonatal Nurse, Lactation Consultant and Board Chair at Haakaa, shares why this research is such a meaningful step forward and what it means for mothers everywhere.
Breastfeeding may help protect women against breast cancer
“This new research is incredible because it helps us understand why breastfeeding protects mums, not just babies,” says Courtney. “Scientists have discovered that women who breastfeed develop long-lasting immune cells (T-cells) that stay in breast tissue for years, acting like tiny bodyguards against potential cancer cells.
“It’s amazing to think that something as natural as breastfeeding continues to protect our health long after we’ve finished feeding. It’s just another reminder of how extraordinary women’s bodies really are.”
The long-term health benefits of breastfeeding
According to Courtney, breastfeeding benefits both baby and mum. “In the short term, it supports the body’s recovery after birth, helps balance hormones, and assists the uterus to contract. Long-term, studies show it can reduce the risk of breast and ovarian cancers, type 2 diabetes, and even heart disease,” she explains.
“It’s a beautiful reminder that breastfeeding isn’t only about nourishing your baby, it’s your body’s way of looking after you, too.”
The biggest challenges new mums face
“Despite knowing the benefits, many women struggle to breastfeed,” says Courtney. “The first hurdle is often getting that latch right. When attachment is shallow, nipples can become sore or cracked, and every feed hurts.
“Then, when milk first comes in around day three to five, engorgement can make breasts firm, hot and difficult for baby to attach. Tools like Haakaa’s Ladybug Milk Collector can help ease surface pressure and catch any leaks between feeds, offering gentle comfort when everything feels tender and new.
“But more than anything, new mums need reassurance that they’re not failing. These challenges are normal, and support makes all the difference.”
Why early and ongoing support matters
Courtney believes support shouldn’t start after birth, it should begin before. “Antenatal education should prepare mums for what those first few weeks truly look like: engorgement, cluster feeding, sore nipples, exhaustion,” she says. “Once baby arrives, having access to a lactation consultant or trained midwife who can help troubleshoot early challenges can completely change a mother’s experience.
“Consistent, compassionate care builds confidence – and confident mums are far more likely to continue breastfeeding successfully.”
“There’s no one ‘right way’ to feed your baby”
“Breastfeeding is hard! It takes time, patience and the right support,” says Courtney. “Even as a lactation consultant, I struggled in the beginning!
“Focus on small wins: one better latch, one more comfortable feed, one moment where you feel connected. There’s no one ‘right way’ to feed your baby, only the way that’s right for you.”
