Pregnant women are being encouraged to attend local breastfeeding support groups, so that they are aware of the help available to them when they eventually have their babies.

According to Siobhan Hourigan, the HSE's national breastfeeding coordinator, breastfeeding is important for healthy growth and development. However, the first few weeks can prove difficult for many women and this is when support is particularly important.

"There is a wonderful network of support groups across the country. Every week, there are mother and baby meetings in health centres, community centres and coffee shops around the country, having a chat, sharing their experiences and having the expertise of health professionals or breastfeeding counsellors to hand," Ms Hourigan explained.

She emphasised that this support is important ‘to help mums breastfeed for longer'.

"During pregnancy is a good time to go along to your local breastfeeding support group, to get information on breastfeeding and meet other mums and mums-to-be. Knowing that this support is out there can be really helpful when you have had your baby," she explained.

Ms Hourigan made her comments to coincide with World Breastfeeding Week, which runs from August 1-7. The theme of this year's event is ‘Breastfeeding Support: Close to Mothers'. It aims to highlight the support that is available to expectant and new mothers and draw attention to the importance of peer support in helping mothers to establish and maintain breastfeeding.

Studies have shown that children who are breastfed are less likely to develop a number of conditions, including asthma, eczema, diabetes, obesity and chest infections.

Mothers who breastfeed also have a reduced risk of developing heart disease, diabetes, breast cancer and ovarian cancer.

There are almost 200 breastfeeding support groups across Ireland. Their meeting times can be viewed here.

Alternatively, call the HSE infoline at 1850 24 1850.