University Hospital Galway Offers Advice and Support for National Breastfeeding Week

National Breastfeeding Week runs from 01-07 October and it’s a great opportunity to promote the importance of breastfeeding and the many positive health benefits it provides for both mother and baby. It’s also an opportunity to provide information on breastfeeding supports and to let parents and parents-to-be know where they can access this information and support.

This year’s theme is ‘Expert help for every step of the way’ and Claire Cellarius, Breast Feeding/Lactation Specialist Midwife at University Hospital Galway said, “Breastfeeding gives babies the best start for a healthy life and it protects both mum and baby. While it is the most natural way to feed babies it’s also a skill that mum and baby learn during the early days and weeks. Many breastfeeding mothers need ongoing support to continue breastfeeding and it’s important that they know they are not alone and that expert help is available to them every step of the way on their breastfeeding journey.

“At University Hospital Galway Antenatal Breastfeeding Education is offered at the hospital and at outreach clinics, along with live virtual breastfeeding webinars which take place once a month delivered by a team of Midwives, a Lactation Specialist Midwife and Consultant Neonatologist. Mothers can register for the breastfeeding webinars by going to www.uhgmaternity.com

“Virtual support clinics are hosted every week where mothers can access from the comfort of their own home to seek help and support from the Lactation Specialist Midwife. Times and details are available to mothers when they are leaving hospital and are also listed on www.mychild.ie

“Face to face appointments are also available for mothers with breastfeeding concerns or difficulties. Referrals for face to face appointments can be made through your local Public Health Nurse or GP. 

“Ask the expert - live chat and e-mail support service which provides access to a breastfeeding expert is also available on www.mychild.ie 7 days a week. This is an excellent resource for women at every stage of their breastfeeding journey. 

“During National Breastfeeding Week the Maternity Department at UHG will have information stands available throughout the unit for women to access information about breastfeeding. To finish the week, the Maternity Department will be holding a breastfeeding quiz with lots of prizes for mums, bumps and staff.”

Photo caption:
Marking National Breastfeeding Week at University Hospital Galway is Claire Cellarius, Breast Feeding/Lactation Specialist Midwife with Nina Wemken and baby Séagh from Spiddal, County Galway.