Adapted from ABM Protocol #7, Model Hospital Policy (PDF).
Baby-Friendly USA requires topics to be covered in first trimester.
Topic 1. The right to receive respectful maternity care – which refers to care organized for and provided to all women in a manner that maintains their dignity, privacy and confidentiality, ensures freedom from harm and mistreatment, and enables informed choice and continuous support during labor and childbirth.
Topic 2. Pain relief methods during labor and the influence of delivery methods on breastfeeding success.
Topic 3. Global recommendations and importance of breastfeeding the importance of exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months, the risks of giving breast milk substitutes, and the importance of continuing breastfeeding after 6 months with appropriate complementary foods, for the first two years or beyond.
Topic 4. The importance of immediate and sustained skin-to-skin contact after birth.
Topic 5. The importance of early initiation of breastfeeding and rooming in on a 24-hour basis.
Topic 6. The basics of milk supply and demand, to ensure the infant’s adequate nourishment.
Topic 7. The basics of good positioning and attachment and recognition of feeding cues.
Topic 8. Management of most common initial challenges such as pain, cluster feeding, sleepy newborns, latching issues, engorgement and practice of safe sleep
