National Breastfeeding Week runs from 1-7 October

National Breastfeeding Week kicked off on Wednesday 1 October highlighting the range of supports available for Irish mothers, including more than 200 support groups nationwide and the Quintessence Breastfeeding Challenge – which is taking place at a number of locations on Saturday 4 October and is the perfect opportunity for breastfeeding mums to meet and chat. ‘‘Breastfeeding is so important for the health of children and their mothers,” says HSE National Breastfeeding co-ordinator Siobhan Hourigan. “Support can really help mothers to get started with breastfeeding and to breastfeed for longer. Pregnancy is a good time to first visit your local support group. There are 208 support groups throughout the country and contact details are available on the HSE website at www.breastfeeding.ie.”