The Baby-Friendly re-designation is awarded to hospitals demonstrating a strong commitment to excellence in breastfeeding education and support.
The designation is based on global criteria developed by the World Health Organization and United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative —challenging criteria designed to set the standards for the best possible breastfeeding support for mother and infant in the maternity setting.
Breastfeeding classes for expectant parents as well as breastfeeding support following birth are offered at Dominican Hospital through International Board Certified Lactation Consultants, who are on-site daily to provide teaching and counsel.
Research shows that by offering breastfeeding services in conjunction with Baby Friendly Hospital practices, designated hospitals succeed in promoting, protecting, and supporting breastfeeding. Mothers delivering at a Baby Friendly Hospital tend to breastfeed longer than mothers delivering at other hospitals.
There are more than 20,000 designated Baby-Friendly hospitals and birth centers worldwide, and 551 in the United States. Currently, California leads the nation with 94 hospitals designated as Baby-Friendly.
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To learn more about Dominican Hospital’s breastfeeding support services, visit dignityhealth.org/dominicanbirthcenter.