Breastfeeding
HSE article for Breastfeeding
Positioning and attachment
The key to successful breastfeeding is positioning and attachment. Your baby will find it easier to feed when they are attached correctly. Learn more.
Thinking about breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is important for your baby. If you are thinking about breastfeeding, learn how it can protect your baby against illness.
Expressing
Expressing your milk is a very useful skill to learn. You may want to express milk when you are going to be away from your baby for a time.
Breastfeeding: cluster feeding
What to do if your baby is fussy about breastfeeding, if they are feeding for very long periods, and how to get support.
Expressing breast milk for a premature or ill baby
Why expressing breast milk is important if your baby is too small or sick to breastfeed
Your first breast milk or 'colostrum'
How and why your ‘first milk’ can benefit your baby, and how your breastmilk changes as your baby grows.
Breastfeeding: concern about overfeeding
What to expect when breastfeeding, how to tell if your baby is hungry or full, and how to schedule your breastfeeds.
Weight gain in breastfed babies
Advice for breastfeeding and what to expect as your baby gains weight and goes through growth spurts.
Breastfeeding in public
Get tips for breastfeeding in public, such as where and when to do it, good clothing to wear, and your legal rights to do it.
Alcohol and breastfeeding
How alcohol affects your breast milk and steps to take if you want to drink alcohol when breastfeeding
Concern about your breastmilk supply
Get advice for increasing the supply of your breast milk, what to expect as your baby feeds, and what you can do if you’re worried about breastfeeding.
What to eat while breastfeeding
What to eat and how much to eat to make sure your baby gets what they need during breastfeeding.
Breastfeeding out and about
Breastfeeding is convenient when you are out and about with your baby. There is very little to organise for trips. Learn about breastfeeding in public spaces.
Breastfeeding and work
You can avail of breastfeeding breaks at work up to 26 weeks after the birth of your baby. Learn more about breastfeeding and work.
Baby's routine when breastfeeding
You should get to know your baby's routine when breastfeeding. Feeding your baby on demand works better than you setting a routine. Learn more through the HSE.