What is one benefit of breastfeeding for the mother?

Breastfeeding provides numerous benefits not only for the infant but also for the mother. One significant benefit is the decrease in the risk of breast cancer. Research has shown that women who breastfeed have a reduced risk of developing breast cancer compared to those who do not breastfeed. This reduced risk may be attributed to hormonal changes that occur during lactation, which can influence cell growth in breast tissue and lower the chances of cancerous developments.

In contrast, the other options highlight either adverse outcomes or irrelevant factors. The increase in cardiovascular disease risk is not associated with breastfeeding; instead, breastfeeding can contribute to better heart health later in life. Higher costs of feeding are generally not a consideration since breastfeeding is often less expensive than formula feeding. Finally, delayed uterine involution would suggest a negative outcome, while breastfeeding actually assists in uterine contraction and usually promotes more rapid involution. Thus, recognizing the protective effects of breastfeeding against breast cancer underscores its importance for maternal health.