How Maternity Centers Achieve Breastfeeding-Friendly Designation

Maternity centers can receive the Breastfeeding-Friendly Designation through a structured process aimed at encouraging hospitals and birth centers to adopt practices that promote and support breastfeeding. The designation is typically awarded by health departments or breastfeeding coalitions based on criteria that align with national and international breastfeeding standards, such as the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI) by the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF. Here’s an overview of how maternity centers achieve this designation:

Steps to Achieving the Breastfeeding-Friendly Designation

Achieving the Breastfeeding-Friendly Designation requires dedication and a structured approach. Maternity centers must implement various policies and programs that promote breastfeeding as the standard practice for infant care. Below are the essential steps maternity centers follow to obtain this designation.

Commitment to Breastfeeding Support

Maternity centers must demonstrate a commitment to breastfeeding by adopting and implementing policies that promote breastfeeding as the standard for infant nutrition. This involves ensuring all staff, from nurses to doctors, are trained in breastfeeding support and that breastfeeding education is incorporated into prenatal care.

Staff Training and Education

To qualify for the designation, maternity centers must provide comprehensive breastfeeding education to their staff. This includes ongoing training in lactation support so that all healthcare providers have the knowledge and skills necessary to assist new mothers with breastfeeding from the moment of birth.

Breastfeeding Policies

Centers seeking the designation must implement clear breastfeeding policies that align with evidence-based best practices. These policies include the Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding, which encourage practices such as:

  • Immediate and uninterrupted skin-to-skin contact after birth
  • Rooming-in, allowing mothers and babies to stay together 24/7
  • Avoiding the use of formula unless medically necessary

Education for Mothers

Maternity centers provide education and resources for pregnant women and new mothers about the benefits of breastfeeding and how to breastfeed successfully. This can be done through prenatal classes, one-on-one counseling, and postpartum support.

Data Collection and Monitoring

To maintain the designation, centers must monitor breastfeeding rates and other key indicators to ensure they are meeting the standards. This often involves regular audits, surveys, and data reporting to show that their practices are effectively promoting breastfeeding.

Application Process

Maternity centers apply for the Breastfeeding-Friendly Designation by submitting documentation that demonstrates their adherence to the required breastfeeding practices and policies. The application is typically reviewed by a committee or board from the awarding organization.

Assessment and Award

An on-site assessment may be conducted to verify that the center meets the criteria for breastfeeding-friendly practices. If the maternity center passes this assessment, it is awarded the Breastfeeding-Friendly Designation, which is usually valid for a specific period (e.g., 3-5 years), after which the center must reapply.

Benefits of the Designation

Hospitals with the Breastfeeding-Friendly Designation are recognized for their leadership in promoting optimal infant health. The designation also builds trust with patients, demonstrating that the center prioritizes evidence-based care and support for breastfeeding mothers.

Conclusion

Earning the Breastfeeding-Friendly Designation is a significant achievement for maternity centers, reflecting their commitment to supporting new mothers and ensuring the best start for infants. Through rigorous policies, staff training, and ongoing education for mothers, these centers promote breastfeeding as the healthiest choice for both baby and mother. As more maternity centers adopt breastfeeding-friendly practices, the benefits of breastfeeding will continue to positively impact families and communities, encouraging healthier outcomes for future generations.