Mercy Hospital has achieved Baby-Friendly® designation from Baby-Friendly USA.
Baby-Friendly hospitals are recognized worldwide for being the gold standard concerning infant bonding and breastfeeding practices in their birthing units. Mercy Hospital Southwest has implemented all of the Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding and has met all requirements of purchasing breast milk substitutes.
Studies show links between breastfeeding and improved health in children; higher IQs, reduced trips to the pediatrician, fewer ear infections, higher immunity, and reduced risk for diabetes. Babies are not the only one to receive benefits from breastfeeding, for mom; reduced risk of postpartum depression, reduced risk of post-delivery bleeding complications, reduced risk of ovarian cancer, and reduced risk of cardiovascular disease.
“The staff at Mercy Hospital Southwest has spent many hours being educated on the importance of breastfeeding and supporting our mothers in their choice of infant feeding,” said Jennifer Culbertson, chief nursing executive officer for Mercy Hospitals Bakersfield. “The staff is dedicated to educating and providing support to each mother that delivers at Mercy Hospital Southwest. Receiving this designation is a direct result of all the hard work from each team member at our hospital.”
There are more than 20,000 designated Baby-Friendly hospitals and birth centers worldwide. Currently there are 375 active Baby-Friendly hospitals and birth centers in the United States. The “Baby-Friendly” designation is given after a rigorous on-site survey is completed. The award is maintained by continuing to practice the Ten Steps as demonstrated by quality processes.
