There are vast differences in breastfeeding rates between rural and urban Ireland according to the latest figures.
The latest figures from the HSE published by the Irish Times show that just over half of all babies are being breastfed by the time they get their first visit from the public health nurse.
More than 8 out of 10 babies are being breastfed in South East Dublin compared to just 2 in 10 in some rural areas like Donegal and Louth.
There are also divisions according to wealth with the Dublin figure dropping to just under half of babies being breastfed in Dublin southwest.
We also rank poorly at an international level with 90 percent of Australian babies being breastfed.
Breastfeeding support groups like Friends of Breastfeeding are encouraging women to reach out for support no matter where they are in the country.
The HSE is continuing its campaign to encourage more mothers to breastfeed for as long as they're able to.
Nicole Gernon reports:
