Prolonged Breastfeeding Associated with Postmenopausal Osteoporosis Save

The effects of prior breastfeeding on bone density of postmenopausal women have been controversial. Several studies suggest that breastfeeding and childbirth lead to maternal calcium loss and a decline in bone mineral density (BMD).

A recent cross-sectional survey based on the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES) 2010-2011 studied 1222 postmenopausal women and the association between breastfeeding, BMD and osteoporosis.

The prevalence of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women with a history of prolonged breastfeeding was significantly higher than that seen in women with a short history of breastfeeding (≥37 months, OR = 3.292; 95 % CI 1.485–7.299).
Study concluded prolonged breastfeeding was significantly associated with low BMD in the lumbar spine and higher prevalence of osteoporosis, suggesting more careful screening for osteoporosis of women with a history of prolonged breastfeeding. The number of deliveries or age at the time of childbirth did not influence BMD.