LaLeche league

The La Leche League Arklow-Enniscorthy group continues to offer support by telephone to breastfeeding mothers and pregnant women throughout the area.

While the group’s in-person meetings and home visits are currently suspended leaders remain available to mothers by phone and Messenger to offer information and support during the current difficult times of social distancing.

In line with advice from the HSE they suggest that if someone who is breastfeeding becomes ill it is important not to interrupt direct breastfeeding if possible.

The baby has already been exposed to the virus by the mother and/or family and will benefit most from continued direct breastfeeding.

Disruption of breastfeeding may lead to several issues including an increased risk of the infant becoming ill as a result of lack of immune support the direct breastfeeding provides.

If a mother requires hospitalisation the baby should be allowed to continue breastfeeding if at all possible, however, if an interruption to breastfeeding is deemed medically necessary, hand expressing or pumping breast-milk is encouraged.

Mothers who wish to find out more information about breastfeeding or those who are in need of support in any way can get in contact by phone, text or WhatsApp to Sarah on 086 8889358, Jackie on 087 2389089, and Siobhán on 087 6374036.

They can also contact the Facebook page la lecheleaguearklow/enniscorthy.