Breastfeeding and risk of relapse in MS

Is breastfeeding associated with reduction in postpartum relapses in women with multiple sclerosis?

Findings In this systematic review and meta-analysis of 24 studies that include 2974 women, there was a reduced rate of postpartum multiple sclerosis relapses in women who were breastfeeding compared with those who were not breastfeeding, with a stronger benefit of exclusive rather than nonexclusive breastfeeding. Compared with nonbreastfeeding, breastfeeding was associated with a 43% lower rate of postpartum relapse, although it is not possible to exclude residual confounding.

Meaning Breastfeeding appears to be protective against postpartum multiple sclerosis relapses, although additional high-quality prospective studies appear to be needed.

Is breastfeeding associated with reduction in postpartum relapses in women with multiple sclerosis?

In a systematic review and meta-analysis published at JAMA Neurology of 24 studies that include 2974 women , there was a reduced rate of postpartum multiple sclerosis relapses in women who were breastfeeding compared with those who were not breastfeeding, with a stronger benefit of exclusive rather than nonexclusive breastfeeding. Compared with nonbreastfeeding, breastfeeding was associated with a 43% lower rate of postpartum relapse, although it is not possible to exclude residual confounding.

Meaning Breastfeeding appears to be protective against postpartum multiple sclerosis relapses, although additional high-quality prospective studies appear to be needed