WE ARE BABY FRIENDLY
We are dedicated to helping mothers make an informed feeding choice for their baby. A baby’s risk of becoming an overweight child goes down with each month of breastfeeding. In the US, most babies start breastfeeding, but within the first week, half have already been given formula, and by 9 months, only 31% of babies are breastfeeding at all. Hospitals can either help or hinder mothers and babies as they begin to breastfeed.
The Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding
The Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding for Hospitals and Birth Centers, were outlined by UNICEF/WHO in the 1980’s. The steps for the United States are:
1. Maintain a written breastfeeding policy that is routinely communicated to all health care staff.
2. Train all health care staff in skills necessary to implement this policy.
3. Inform all pregnant women about the benefits and management of breastfeeding.
4. Help mothers initiate breastfeeding within one hour of birth.
5. Show mothers how to breastfeed and how to maintain lactation, even if they are separated from their infants.
6. Give infants no food or drink other than breastmilk, unless medically indicated.
7. Practice “rooming in”– allow mothers and infants to remain together 24 hours a day.
8. Encourage unrestricted breastfeeding.
9. Give no pacifiers or artificial nipples to breastfeeding infants.
10. Foster the establishment of breastfeeding support groups and refer mothers to them on discharge from the hospital or clinic
Monadnock Community Hospital: Birth with Confidence
Why choose The Birthing Suite? We understand that birth is a momentous occasion. Our team of experts provides advanced medical care while fostering a warm, family-centered environment. We support you every step of the way with transparency, personalized care, and comprehensive education programs. Our commitment to safety empowers you to make informed decisions, leading to a positive and memorable birthing experience you can trust.