The best possible nutritional option for a child in the first 1,000 days of their life is breast milk. The World Health Organisation (WHO) and the Department of Health both recommend exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months and up until two years in addition to the introduction of complementary solid foods.

Research has shown that breastfeeding for 26 weeks or more is associated with a 51pc reduction in the risk of obesity. Breastfeeding can also contribute to a lifetime of good health, helping to lower blood pressure, cholesterol and help stave off type-2 diabetes in later life.

Why then, when the benefits are so profound, are only 56pc of women currently initiating breastfeeding in Ireland? This compares poorly when considered against other European countries. Figures from the UK suggest that 81pc of mothers initiate breastfeeding there. This figure soars to above 90pc in most Scandinavian states (ESRI, 2012).

The number of mothers exclusively breastfeeding upon discharge from hospital in Ireland is only 46pc. And this falls to 22.7pc by the time infants are three months old.

With the majority of women leaving hospital within three days of giving birth, why are the rates of breastfeeding within that timeframe falling by 10pc? Why do they fall again so quickly within the first three months?

Obviously, the level of support required for new mothers is simply not being provided. What is needed is both emotional and practical support. While the benefits of breastfeeding are clear, it is also known to be difficult and challenging – particularly when dealing with all the other emotions and physical challenges presented immediately following the birth of a child.

A focused response to help increase initial initiation rates is needed as well as a programmatic approach to helping promote, support and encourage mothers who start the process to keep it up for as long as possible.

Research indicates that in order for mothers to be successful at breastfeeding, many support structures are necessary for both initiation and duration. Additional education and public information programmes to highlight the profound impact that breastfeeding will have on the the long-term health of your child is the first step.

Outside of that, we need lactation experts within the hospital system as well as amongst the public health community – visiting our new mothers and being available to give them the immediate help that they need during those difficult first days and weeks.

Public health nurses, practice nurses, GPs and community support groups must provide practical support on preparing and initiating breastfeeding. All healthcare professionals in contact with expectant mothers should provide information on the benefits of breastfeeding and offer practical advice on preparing to breastfeed. By planning ahead, the likelihood of success is increased dramatically.

The length of maternity leave that a woman takes is a major determinant of how long women will breastfeed. Returning to work part time increases the risk of stopping breastfeeding by 150pc, while returning full time increases the risk by 230pc. Employers need to be aware of the best practice guidelines developed by the Department of Health and ensure they do what they can to facilitate mothers who wish to continue to breastfeed.

See www.breastfeeding.ie and www.who.int for support and further information on breastfeeding.

Irish Independent

http://www.independent.ie/opinion/analysis/mary-mitchell-oconnor-system-is-letting-down-women-and-their-children-29709871.html