Effect of Lactation on Periodontal Health Status of Postpartum Patients: A Cross-Sectional Study at 3 Months Postpartum

Background: Breastfeeding is universally acknowledged as the optimal infant nutrition strategy, backed by evidence of its numerous benefits for both mothers and babies. For women with common metabolic conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome, diabetes, and obesity, breastfeeding may offer additional advantages. While the benefits of lactation are well-documented, its effects on periodontal health are less understood. Objective: To evaluate the effect of lactation on periodontal health status in postpartum women by assessing clinical periodontal parameters, including Plaque Index, Gingival Index, Bleeding on Probing, and Probing Pocket Depth, in lactating and non-lactating mothers at three months postpartum. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among postpartum women at Sudha Maternity and General Hospital in Tadepalli, three months after delivery from December 2024 to February 2025. This study comprised 350 patients, divided into lactating and non-lactating groups, Periodontal evaluations were performed three months postpartum, assessing key parameters including plaque index, gingival index, probing pocket depth, and bleeding on probing. Results: A total of 324 participants, either lactating or non-lactating, were included in the study at three months postpartum. The mean age of the participants was 27.5 ± 4.2 years. Lactating mothers exhibited statistically significant differences in plaque index, gingival index, bleeding on probing, and probing pocket depth compared to non-lactating mothers, with the latter showing the greatest disparity. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that breastfeeding will be beneficial for women’s periodontal health, reducing the risk of periodontitis. This information can be valuable in developing targeted oral health education for pregnant women