Ten steps to successful Breastfeeding (...and what it means to you!)
1. Have a written breastfeeding policy routinely communicated to all staff
In your hospital of choice all staff should be trained in breast feeding promotion and support and have a universal policy to refer to.2. Train all staff necessary to implement this policy
All staff should be saying the same thing therefore reducing conflicting advice.3. Inform all pregnant women about the benefits of breastfeeding
Your health care should discuss the benefits of breastfeeding and your feeding options before you deliver.4. Help mothers initiate breastfeeding within a half hour of birth
Your nurse or midwife should help you to feed as soon as possible and promote skin to skin contact.5. Show mothers how to breastfeed and maintain lactation even if they are separated from their baby
If your baby needs to be admitted to the neonatal unit you will be supported to continue breastfeeding and assisted with maintaining your milk supply.6. Give new-born infants no food or drink unless medically indicated
A breastfed baby should not have anything else but breast milk unless a doctor prescribes otherwise.7. Practice rooming in: allow babies to be with mothers 24 hours per day
Your hospital of choice should encourage you to have your baby with you 24/7 so that you can get to know your babies' feeding cues.8. Encourage breastfeeding on demand
This means feeds aren't timed or on a set routine as this can interfere with establishment of your milk supply.9. Give no artificial pacifiers or teats
These can cause nipple confusion and increase the risk of oral thrush.10. Foster establishment of Breastfeeding support groups and ensure woman are aware of them on discharge
New mothers should know where to get help when they return home before they leave hospital.(World Health Organization - Baby Friendly Initiative)
