Distinction given for breastfeeding advocacy
NEWPORT, R.I. – Newport Hospital has earned designation as a Baby-Friendly hospital for the fourth consecutive time.
The Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative was launched by the World Health Organization and UNICEF in 1991. It is a global effort to implement practices that protect, promote and support breastfeeding.
Having first received the designation in 2003, the hospital’s Noreen Stonor Drexel Birthing Center recently earned a five-year renewal. Hospitals are awarded this status when independent evaluators have determined that all hospital practices meet the rigorous Baby-Friendly standards.
The hospital is one of 500 in the United States that have achieved the status.
“Baby-Friendly designation is the gold standard for excellence in support of breastfeeding mothers and infants,” said Crista Durand, president of Newport Hospital. “We’re so proud of this recognition, which is really a testament to the outstanding care that our nursing staff, pediatricians and women’s health team provide to new mothers and newborns.”
In addition to helping new mothers begin breastfeeding their newborns, the birthing center offers prenatal breastfeeding classes, an ongoing support group, free prenatal breastfeeding information sessions, and consultations with lactation experts.
To learn more about the Noreen Stonor Drexel Birthing Center at Newport Hospital, 20 Powel Ave., call 401-845-1110 or visit https://www.lifespan.org/centers-services/noreen-stonor-drexel-birthing-center