Just half of babies born in Ireland are being breastfed when they leave hospital compared to 80% of babies in the UK and almost all babies in Sweden, Norway and Denmark, the HSE has said.

According to the HSE's national breastfeeding coordinator, Siobhan Hourigan, many Irish mothers ‘do not reach their breastfeeding goals and stop breastfeeding sooner than planned'.

"Some mums plan to breastfeed for weeks, some for months and some for years. All breastfeeding is worthwhile and every breastfeed makes a difference. I would encourage mums to try to breastfeed as long as you can. It helps to link with supports, to find out what to expect and to get help if you need it," she commented.

She pointed out that there are almost 200 breastfeeding support groups around the country.

Ms Hourigan made her comments to coincide with National Breastfeeding Week, which runs until October 7. Events are taking place at breastfeeding groups nationwide to mark the week.

The HSE emphasised the importance of breastfeeding for the health of both mothers and babies. For example, children who are breastfed are less likely to develop ear, nose and throat infections, chest infections, kidney infections, asthma, diabetes and obesity. Meanwhile, breastfeeding helps protect women against breast cancer and ovarian cancer. It also helps with weight loss after having a baby.

The Department of Health and the HSE recommend that babies are exclusively breastfed for the first six months of life, after which time mothers can continue the practice in conjunction with solid foods for up to two years or beyond.

For more information on breastfeeding and events taking place to mark National Breastfeeding Week, click here