UAB Medicine News

UAB Medicine once again achieved the highly prestigious international Baby-Friendly designation from Baby-Friendly USA, the accrediting body for the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI) in the United States.

BFHI is a joint effort of the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) that encourages broad-scale implementation of proven breastfeeding methods and offers guidelines for marketing breast milk substitutes. The initiative recognizes hospitals that help equip mothers with the information and skills needed to successfully breastfeed their babies.

As the national authority for the BFHI in the United States, Baby-Friendly USA is responsible for upholding the highest standards in infant feeding care. The organization conducts a rigorous review process before awarding the designation to hospitals.

UAB Medicine is among more than 20,000 Baby-Friendly hospitals and birth centers throughout the world, including 604 in the United States. These facilities maintain an environment that supports breastfeeding while respecting every woman’s right to make the best decision for her and her family.

Todd Jenkins, MD, director of the UAB Medicine Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, notes the importance of this re-designation.

“UAB Medicine is committed to providing comprehensive maternity care, including a mission to support and encourage breastfeeding and breastfeeding mothers,” Dr. Jenkins says. “We are excited and honored to receive the Baby-Friendly designation as a recognition of our commitment.”

Click here to learn more about the UAB Women and Infants Center.