Recently, the Breastfeeding Promotion Network of India (BPNI), a national organization that supports breastfeeding and appropriate supplementary feeding for infants and young children, launched the National Accreditation Centre (NAC) for Breastfeeding Friendly Hospitals. This innovative initiative is aimed at certifying hospitals across India as breastfeeding-friendly, in response to recent data showing an increase in cesarean deliveries.
The NAC Initiative
The NAC is an innovative initiative process that certifies hospitals as breastfeeding-friendly, a response to a reported rise in cesarean deliveries, according to the latest National Family Health Survey (NFHS). A cesarean delivery involves surgical incisions made in the abdomen and uterus when a vaginal delivery isn’t possible or safe.
This move aims to evaluate hospitals based on their policies, programs, and practices concerning breastfeeding. The goal is to reduce neonatal mortality, defined as death within the first 28 days of life, and consequently impact the Infant Mortality Rate (IMR).
The Importance of Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is not only optimal for mothers but also beneficial for their babies. It offers protection against infections and reduces health issues such as diabetes, obesity, and asthma later in life.
Compared to formula or cow’s milk, the protein found in breast milk is more readily digested by babies. Calcium and iron are also more easily absorbed from breast milk.
For mothers, breastfeeding assists in uterus contraction and stops bleeding quicker after delivery. Moreover, it lowers the risk of breast and ovarian cancer, while fostering a strong bond between mother and child.
Disconcerting Data
Data from the most recent NFHS (2019-21) reveals that only 41.8% of mothers were able to breastfeed within the first hour of birth, including skin-to-skin contact with their newborns. This suggests that 58% of mothers were not facilitated to do so. Given the annual birth rate of approximately 24.5 million, this implies that nearly 14.2 million newborns miss out on the benefits of their mother’s milk, thereby violating the human rights of both mother and child.
Government Initiatives Related to Breastfeeding
Several government initiatives underscore the importance of breastfeeding. These include the “Mothers Absolute Affection” (MAA) movement, the Adolescent Friendly Health Services Program, the Auxiliary Nurse Midwife initiative, the Janani Suraksha Yojana (JSY), and the Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY).
Additionally, programs like the Indira Gandhi Matritva Sahyog Yojna (IGMSY), Kudumbashree in Kerala, and Poshan Abhiyaan further emphasize breastfeeding’s significance for infant and young child health.
The launch of the National Accreditation Centre for Breastfeeding Friendly Hospitals is a significant step in promoting breastfeeding across India. It highlights the essential role of hospitals in creating an environment conducive to breastfeeding, thereby benefiting both mothers and their babies. With supportive policies and practices in place, India stands a good chance of improving its neonatal and infant mortality rates significantly.
