The Childbirth Center @ St. Joseph Hospital
Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative
Over the past few years, the staff of The Childbirth Center has been actively pursing The Baby Friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI).
On March 10, 2005 we had a final site visit from Baby Friendly USA. It is with great pleasure that I announce The Childbirth Center at St. Joseph Hospital has achieved the prestigious international recognition as a Baby-FriendlyTM hospital. Currently, there are only 51 hospitals and birth centers in the United States that are designated as Baby Friendly, and only 2 in New Hampshire. We are the only Baby Friendly hospital in Southern NH! To see the other 51 hospitals that have achieved Baby Friendly designation go to http://www.babyfriendlyusa.org. The “Baby Friendly” designation is given after a rigorous 2 day on-site survey is completed. The award is then maintained by continuing to practice the Ten Steps as demonstrated by quality processes.
So what does all this mean?
What is the Baby Friendly Hospital Initiative?
The Baby Friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI) is an international program of The World Health
Organization (WHO) and the United Nations Children Fund (UNICEF) that is designed to increase breastfeeding rates globally. It recognizes hospitals and birth centers that have taken steps to provide an optimal environment for the promotion, protection and support of breastfeeding. The BFHI assists in giving mothers the information, confidence and skills needed to successfully initiate and continue to breastfeed for at least 6 months. This also coincides with the American Academy of Pediatric policy statement that states exclusive breastfeeding is the ideal nutrition for approximately the first six months of a baby’s life.
What are the Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding?
What can you expect from St. Joseph Hospital who has indicated their commitment to the full implementation of the Ten Steps? While you are pregnant, you will have a full discussion about caring for and feeding your baby, including the benefits of breastfeeding, so you have all the facts you need to make an informed choice.
If you decide to breastfeed:
If you decide to bottle-feed:
It is our priority to support and guide you as you make decisions for your new little one. At the Childbirth Center, we respect your choice of method for feeding your baby. No matter what you choose, we have many resources available to increase your confidence in bringing your new baby home. Please don’t hesitate to come to us with any questions or concerns. For a personalized tour, please call 603-595-3162. We look forward to being a part of your family on your special day!
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