ALCI Member’s Spring Study Day 2026

March 21st 2026, by Aine McGahon-Lavin

The ALCI Spring Study Day was a highly successful online event held on March 21st 2026, bringing together approximately 200 virtual attendees for an inspirational and educational day. Mairead O'Sullivan (ALCI President) opened the event, welcoming all attendees and thanking ALCI Council for their support throughout the year and in the lead-up to the Study Day.

There were six expert presenters who fostered great engagement, allowing ample time for questions and discussion from participants. For those who couldn't attend live, the event remained available to view for 1 month. We are now looking forward to the upcoming ALCI 2-day Conference, in the Ardilaun Hotel, Galway, on October 9th and 10th, 2026.

Robin Grille, Psychologist and Psychotherapist, presented first on the topic "From breastmilk to the Gut-Brain Axis". He framed breastfeeding as a primary tool against chronic inflammation and a cornerstone of the gut-brain axis. The presentation highlighted "Nutritional Psychiatry," noting that a healthy infant microbiome, shaped by breast milk and the oxytocin of loving attachment, acts as a powerful anti-inflammatory and emotional regulator.

Susan Rogers provided an overview of the essential service provided by the South West Acute Hospital, Enniskillen, Milk Bank, which supplies donor milk to 32 neonatal units across Ireland. Donor milk is critical for protecting the gut health of vulnerable premature infants and other babies and supporting the mother’s own breastfeeding journey.

"Reflux, the new colic"  by Carol Smyth was the next topic.

This session clarified the difference between normal developmental crying (the "PURPLE" crying phase) and GORD. Research indicates that acid suppressants are often no more effective than placebos for crying. Management should focus on "REST" (Regulation, Entrainment, Structure, and Touch), with babywearing cited as a highly effective soothing tool.

Zurina Ali's presentation on "Milk Kinship in Islam" addressed the concept of the "Milk Family," in which breastfeeding creates legal familial bonds (Mahram) that prohibit future marriage. Understanding these religious requirements is essential for providing inclusive, culturally sensitive care when offering donor human milk to Muslim families.

Laura Segura Blanco gave a moving exploration of Lactation as a healing tool following grief. For bereaved parents, milk production can be a way to honour their child’s legacy. Healthcare providers were urged to provide trauma-informed care that respects a parent's autonomy in choosing to either suppress lactation or donate milk.

Dr. Fergal O'Shaughnessy (RCSI) and Dr. Catherine McNestry spoke on Medications in Pregnancy and Lactation (IMPS)

The Irish Medicines in Pregnancy Service discussed a "default to breastfeeding" approach. Most medications pose minimal risk to infants; therefore, healthcare providers should utilise individualised risk-benefit assessments and specialist resources (like LactMed) to support continued breastfeeding rather than advising unnecessary cessation.

The AGM also took place during the day and was facilitated by ALCI President Mairead O'Sullivan.