What breastfeeding support should familes expect from the hospital at birth?

All mothers should receive breastfeeding guidance and information.

California law (Hospital Infant Feeding Act) requires all hospitals with a perinatal unit, by January 1, 2025, to adopt the “Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding,” per the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative, or the California Model Hospital Policy and practices that promote evidence-based breastfeeding guidance and support.

All hospitals providing maternity care shall make available a breastfeeding consultant or alternatively, provide information to the birthing parent on where to receive breast feeding information.

Resources for Hospitals

• Supporting your Perinatal Units During COVID-19: Breastfeeding Guidance (CMQCC and CPQCC)
• World Health Organization (WHO) Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding (revised 2018) – Critical Management Procedures and Key clinical Practices
• California Laws Guiding Hospital Policies and Practices
• Breastfeeding Model Hospital Policies - California
• Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative - USA
• 10 Steps and the International Code – World Health Organization
• Breastfeeding Hospital Quality Improvement

Contact your birthing hospital to find out more about their breastfeeding support:

* Baby Friendly Hospitals