Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine Clinical Protocol #7: Model Maternity Policy Supportive of Breastfeeding

Background: The Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative is a WHO-UNICEF evidence-based initiative aiming to improve quality of care in maternity facilities through global implementation of the Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding as standards of perinatal care. Although each step is evidence-based, all Ten Steps are intended to work synergistically. Step 1b requires maternity facilities to adopt an infant feeding policy that supports breastfeeding. Key Information: This protocol updates the Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine's 2018 Model Maternity Policy Supportive of Breastfeeding and gives readers the most recent evidence basis. It includes a model policy that can be adapted to local needs. Its strength lies in the synergy of all its components. The importance of protecting families from the harmful influence of the commercial milk formula industry is stressed. The policy includes recommendations to verify health workers' competencies to adequately support breastfeeding, to offer prenatal education on breastfeeding to mothers and families, guidance for respectful and patient-centered care during childbirth, and immediate and postnatal support for mother and child. Safety issues are considered. Tools for implementation are included. Recommendations: Maternity facilities must have a policy that protects and supports breastfeeding. It should include all the Ten Steps, which must be implemented as a whole package. External assessments are recommended to ensure compliance with requirements. Continuous monitoring of practices should be routine. Ensuring that health workers who deal directly with mothers and infants have the competencies needed to protect and support breastfeeding through counseling and person-centered care is strongly recommended.