Lactation and cardiovascular health: A comprehensive review

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Health
• Cardiovascular Medicine
• Public Health

Background:

• Lactation is a critical period for maternal health.
• Cardiovascular diseases are a leading cause of mortality in women.
• The link between lactation and long-term maternal cardiometabolic health requires further synthesis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current evidence on the association between lactation and maternal cardiometabolic outcomes.
• To identify clinical, systemic, and policy barriers to lactation success.

Main Methods:

• Narrative review of existing scientific literature.
• Synthesis of evidence on lactation and cardiometabolic health indicators.

Main Results:

• Lactation is associated with reduced risk of hypertension, type 2 diabetes, dyslipidemia, and metabolic syndrome.
• Evidence suggests a potential protective effect against coronary artery disease and cardiovascular events.
• Barriers to lactation initiation and continuation are multifactorial.

Conclusions:

• Lactation confers significant long-term cardiovascular benefits for mothers.
• Interventions addressing lactation barriers are essential for improving maternal cardiovascular health outcomes.
• Promoting and supporting lactation is a key public health strategy.