The Health Implications of Childbearing

Biological Imperatives and Modern Choices

From a biological standpoint, reproduction is a fundamental aspect of human existence. Both men and women are essentially carriers of genetic material, ensuring the continuation of our species. However, modern lifestyles and increasing population pressures have made procreation a more complex choice. Unlike in the past, where children were essential for labor on family farms, today's independent lifestyles often lead to the decision to have fewer or no children.

The Role of Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding is another natural biological function that has been impacted by modern choices. Opting for synthetic formulas instead of breastfeeding can remove women from this natural role, potentially leading to various health issues. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), breastfeeding can reduce the risk of breast cancer, ovarian cancer, and type 2 diabetes in mothers (WHO).

Hormonal Imbalances and Health Risks

Modern choices, such as the use of contraceptive hormones, hormone replacement therapy, and exposure to estrogenic pollutants, can lead to hormonal imbalances. These imbalances are linked to a range of health issues, including:

• Early onset of menstruation
• Infertility
• Irregular menstrual cycles
• Cervical dysplasia
• Fibroids
• Endometrial cancer
• Breast cancer
• Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)
• Osteoporosis

The Impact of Synthetic Hormones

Since the 1940s, estrogen therapy has been popular, but it comes with significant risks. Women who take estrogen are nearly 13 times more likely to develop endometrial cancer and have a 30% increased risk of breast cancer (National Cancer Institute). Researchers have identified oral birth control pills and estrogen replacement therapy as top preventable breast cancer risks.

The Evolutionary Perspective

Historically, women in primitive settings would have had multiple pregnancies and extended periods of breastfeeding, significantly reducing the number of ovulations. Modern women, on the other hand, ovulate around 438 times in their lifetime, compared to about nine times for women in premodern settings. This increased ovulation exposes modern women to higher levels of estrogen, which is linked to various cancers.

Protective Effects of Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding has a protective effect against cancer. Women who breastfeed for a total of two years or more have a decreased incidence of breast cancer. The resting periods of lower estrogen levels during breastfeeding serve as a protective mechanism against cancer.

Solutions and Recommendations

To mitigate the health risks associated with modern lifestyles, women can take several steps to return to more natural practices:

1. Follow a Health Program: Refer to comprehensive health programs like the Wysong Optimal Health Program for guidelines on enhancing overall health.
2. Dietary Changes: Emphasize fresh, raw foods and avoid processed foods. Eliminate hydrogenated oils and refined sugars, which can disrupt hormonal balance.
3. Organic Choices: Use organic foods and avoid synthetic materials in cosmetics and household products to reduce exposure to environmental estrogens.
4. Natural Fats: Avoid low-fat or low-cholesterol diets that rely on processed carbohydrates. Instead, consume natural dietary fats and essential fatty acids.
5. Phytoestrogens: Increase the intake of natural vegetable foods containing phytoestrogens, which can counteract estrogen.
6. Avoid Hormone Medications: Whenever possible, avoid synthetic hormone medications.
7. Natural Birth Control: Explore natural birth control methods.
8. Extended Breastfeeding: Nurse your babies for as long as possible to gain the protective health benefits.

Conclusion

Modern life offers many choices and freedoms, but decisions around childbearing come with significant health implications. Women need to be aware of these risks and take proactive steps to ensure their choices do not lead to increased susceptibility to serious diseases. By returning to more natural practices, women can achieve better hormonal balance and overall health.

References

• World Health Organization. Breastfeeding.
• National Cancer Institute. Hormones and Cancer.
• Zeneca Pharmaceuticals. Tamoxifen Patient Insert. Zeneca, Inc. Wilmington, DE. 1998.