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2.5 Point 6

Point 6: Provide a welcoming atmosphere for breastfeeding families.

Refer to your policy

Where can a mother breastfeed her child in your health-care facility?

How and when is breastfeeding in public discussed with mothers?

All health care facilities should welcome breastfeeding mothers. The Baby Friendly Community Initiative requires the community facility to make it explicit that women may breastfeed their child in any public area of the facility. All staff, including reception staff, must be aware of this policy, and be able to direct a mother to a private area if she would prefer.

Each facility must also have a mechanism in place to ensure discussion takes place regarding

  • information about local places known to welcome breastfeeding mothers, and
  • any issues about breastfeeding in public areas the mother may have.

What do you think?

Do you think it would be beneficial to new mothers to also advise them of their rights regarding breastfeeding in public areas, and workplace provisions for breastfeeding mothers?

If so, form a small working party to research these issues and discuss an appropriate method of communicating this information to new mothers.

International symbol, copyright-free

International symbol, copyright-free

Logo awarded by Australian Breastfeeding Association

Logo awarded by Australian Breastfeeding Association


An initiative of Sth Canterbury DHB, New Zealand

An initiative of Sth Canterbury DHB, New Zealand

Discuss breastfeeding in public with mothers

Discuss breastfeeding in public with mothers