Mothers who have questions about breastfeeding can access an online support service, where experts are on hand to provide answers.

This week is National Breastfeeding Week (October 1-7) and the HSE is reminding anyone with queries about breastfeeding that there are a number of supports available, from over 200 support groups nationwide to the ‘Ask Our Expert' service on www.breastfeeding.ie.

"With our online support service, ‘Ask Our Expert', our lactation consultant provides answers to the many common questions mums have, whether they are thinking about breastfeeding, just getting started or well on their way with a growing baby. For those mums who have a specific query, there is also the option to email your question to a lactation consultant," the HSE explained.

National Breastfeeding Week aims to promote the importance of breastfeeding. It is well established that children who are breastfed tend to have a lower risk of developing a number of illnesses and conditions, such as ear infections, asthma, diabetes and obesity.

Breastfeeding also appears to offer protection to women from heart disease, diabetes, breast cancer and ovarian cancer.

"We have a great wealth of evidence on the importance of breastfeeding and we have talked to women to get their views on how we can support them.

"Some mums plan to breastfeed for weeks, some for months and some for years. However, we know that many, for a number of reasons, don't get to feed their baby for as long as they wanted to. Having somewhere to go for practical information and support is important for helping all mums reach their breastfeeding goals," commented the national lead for breastfeeding, Siobhan Hourigan.

For more information on breastfeeding, including details on various events taking place during National Breastfeeding Week, visit www.breastfeeding.ie.