GUIDANCE: Lactation Consultant and Practice Nurse Anna O'Donoghue from Killarney has launched a breastfeeding guide for new moms

By Michelle Crean

A Killarney nurse who specialises in helping new moms has launched a new breastfeeding guide. Lactation Consultant and Practice Nurse Anna O'Donoghue, who has worked for the past 17 years in Ross Medical Practice at the Reeks, launched 'Your Guide to Breastfeeding’ at the Scotia Clinic Tralee, which provides guidance and reassurance to new moms while nursing their babies.

Anna, from Muckross, has also been working with Scotia Clinic for the past eight years. She has written numerous articles for her peers and provides a wealth of resources to her patients.

She is also the proud mom of three lovely babies all delivered by Dr Mary McCaffrey from the Scotia Clinic, so she understands the challenges and rewards that come with being a mom. In this booklet Anna provides practical advice on all aspects of breastfeeding such as what to expect in the first two weeks after birth while establishing your breastfeeding to common issues that may arise.

Many new mothers question if their babies are getting enough milk, and this is outlined within the booklet, including a guide to amounts depending on age. There is also an illustrated guide to show mom different positions while breastfeeding along with useful tips on expressing and storage of milk. "It's a 20 page guide for any new mom," Anna told the Killarney Advertiser.

"With lockdown support groups aren't running face to face and with this booklet they have the information to refer back to." Anna has also adapted the way she provides support to her patients. She can provide consultations via phone/email or in-person along with posting useful information within her social media platforms. Classes are also available online and include a follow up phone call with mom to ensure all is going well. New parents can contact Anna on 087 2851915.