Question

Which of the following is untrue about breastfeeding?

1) Breast-feeding cannot transmit HIV.
2) Breast-feeding helps shrink the uterus after delivery.
3) Breast milk can transmit polychlorinated biphenyls.
4) Breastfeeding reduces the risk of ovarian cancer.

Answer 1

The untrue statement about breastfeeding is that it cannot transmit HIV. Breast milk can transmit HIV through vertical transmission, but this risk is greatly reduced with appropriate medical interventions.(option 1)

Step-by-step explanation:

The statement about breastfeeding that is untrue is "Breast-feeding cannot transmit HIV". To clarify, breast milk can indeed transmit HIV from an infected mother to her infant, which is known as vertical transmission.

The chance of transmission through breast milk is around 15% if the mother is untreated. However, the risk can be reduced significantly with antiretroviral medications given to both the mother and the infant and by opting for formula feeding.

Breastfeeding does, in fact, help the uterus shrink after delivery due to the release of oxytocin, which also aids in milk ejection. Additionally, breast milk can transmit contaminants like polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) due to environmental exposure. Lastly, breastfeeding is associated with reduced risks of certain cancers, including ovarian cancer.