Promoting Breast Feeding Initiation and Support

The WHO- Unicef Baby-friendly Hospital Initiative Global Criteria serves as the standard for assessing compliance with the Ten Steps for Successful Breastfeeding and the International Code of Marketing of Breast-milk Substitutes. HCAC previously collaborated extensively with UNICEF-Jordan in implementing these steps and devising a recognition system tailored to the Jordanian context.

Amid the global COVID-19 pandemic, it became evident that additional support and guidance were necessary to ensure sustained adherence to the ten steps. Thus, a pivotal focus of the project became the enhancement of the  Baby Friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI) guide. This upgrade aimed to incorporate safe practices during emergencies, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, ensuring the continued protection, promotion, and support of breastfeeding in facilities offering maternity and newborn services. The refinement involved an exhaustive review of current evidence, guidance, and recommendations from reputable sources. The resulting updated materials are available for download below.

All recommendations pertaining to promoting guidance on mother-baby contact and infant feeding during emergency situations, specifically the COVID-19 pandemic, were consolidated into a distinct guide titled ‘Guidance for Mother-Baby Contact and Infant Feeding during the COVID-19 Pandemic Crisis’ (download below). The integration of evidence and guidelines followed the WHO-Unicef Global Criteria wherever applicable.