New local breastfeeding support group set up

The Tullamore Cuidiu Breastfeeding Support Group was recently set up to support women to reach their breastfeeding goals.

The group has been established by Jasmine Elkhershi and Cuidiu Breastfeeding counsellor Carolina Van Ow. Ms Elkhershi said: “There was no breastfeeding support group operating in Offaly so Carolina and I felt breastfeeding women needed a group to meet other breastfeeding mothers, ask questions and feel supported.

“We support breastfeeding, extended breastfeeding, combination feeding and pumping mothers.”

The support group will meet on the 2nd and 4th Thursday of every month at 10.30 am in Tullamore Library. Those who attend the support group can expect an informal chat with friendly people who have similar interests, an exchange with other breastfeeding moms about their experiences and information from Cuidiú Breastfeeding.

According to Ms Elkhershi, there has been a great reaction to the setting up of the group so far. “Women have said they are looking forward to getting to know other women who are breastfeeding and they are looking forward to being able to ask questions and get support.

“We are very lucky in Offaly as we have a public lactation consultant, Patricia Marteinsson. This is the first year that this is available and she has already helped over 70 babies to breastfeed! My baby included! She is fantastic. According to Amy Nielsen, an Inc. Contributor the average mother breastfeeds for 1,800 hours in the first year of a baby's life. A full-time worker in Ireland works 1,809.6 hours.”

The new support group is suitable for anyone interested in breastfeeding, is pregnant, is currently breastfeeding and friends or family members .