If you are considering having your baby at Emerson Hospital, we want you to know that we are recognized as a "baby-friendly" hospital by
Baby-Friendly USA .
While it has always been our mission to be baby friendly, we took extra steps as part of the worldwide Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative to implement practices that offer an optimal level of care for successful infant feeding and mother-baby bonding. The “baby friendly” designation is a global program sponsored by the World Health Organization and the United Nations Children’s Fund.
What “baby friendly” means at Emerson
All our staff are trained to help mothers-to-be learn about the many benefits of breastfeeding and how to breastfeed after leaving the hospital, and we have certified lactation consultants who can provide private, one-on-one breastfeeding guidance.
Your baby will be placed skin-to-skin on your chest right after birth and remain there until the first feeding is accomplished.
Your baby can stay in the room with you at all times (although the nursery is available for your baby if necessary).
Our team teaches all new mothers how to provide the best care for their newborns and respects their informed decision to do what is best for them and their baby.
We will refer you to a new moms support group upon discharge.
If you chose to breastfeed
You will be given instruction and support on how to breastfeed and continue to breastfeed after discharge from the hospital.
Your baby will be given only breast milk while you are here; this means no other forms of food or drink unless medically necessary.
Your baby will not routinely receive pacifiers or artificial nipples. Emerson follows the American Academy of Pediatrics recommendation that you delay pacifier use until breastfeeding is well established (approximately two weeks after birth).
If you chose to formula feed
You will be given instruction about safely preparing and feeding your infant formula.
Your baby will not routinely receive a pacifier (they are available if needed, however).
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