LaLeche league

The La Leche league Arklow-Enniscorthy group is continuing to offer support and assistance by phone to breastfeeding mothers and pregnant women throughout the area.

At the moment, the group’s ‘in person’ meetings and home visits are suspended, however, leaders remain available to mothers by phone and Messenger to offer information and support during the current difficult time of social distancing.

In line with HSE advice, the leaders suggest that if someone is breastfeeding and 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 increased risk of the infant becoming ill as a result of lack of the immune support that breastfeeding provides.

However, sometimes a mother might require hospitalisation.

If that happens then the baby should be allowed to continue breastfeeding if at all possible.

However, if an interruption to breastfeeding is necessary, perhaps because of medical reasons, then hand expressing or pumping breastmilk 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 with the league by phoning, texting or sending a WhatsApp to Sarah (086 8889358), Jackie (087 2389089) and Siobhan (087 6374036).

The league can also be contacted through its social media page on Facebook.