In our hospital, in-service trainings on successful breastfeeding and the importance of breast milk are regularly given to all our staff, and these trainings are carried out both theoretically and practically. The trainings aim to increase the knowledge and skills of the staff and are under constant supervision.

Before the birth, expectant mothers are told about the importance of breast milk and successful breastfeeding techniques. Within the first half hour after birth, professional support is provided to the mother and breastfeeding is encouraged. Working mothers and mothers with nipple problems are given detailed information about expressing and storing breast milk.

In order to help strengthen the emotional bond between mother and baby, it is ensured that the baby is not given any food or drink other than breast milk. In line with the training received by the mother, the continuity of breastfeeding is ensured during her stay in the hospital. In addition, breastfeeding mothers are guided about their own nutrition and are encouraged to breastfeed whenever the baby asks for it.

Mothers are informed that the use of pacifiers and bottle feeding is wrong, and it is emphasised that breastfeeding is the only form of nutrition for six months and that the transition to additional foods should be made after the sixth month. Mothers are also informed that breastfeeding should continue until the age of two and beyond.

In the first 10-15 days after birth, mothers and babies are visited at home or interviewed by phone, and the adequacy of the training provided is assessed. Information is also provided about health institutions that can help mothers and babies with their health problems. In our institution, the international formula code is adopted and applied in all health services.

Breastfeeding Policy

In our hospital, a written breastfeeding policy has been established for all health personnel who directly encounter pregnant women, puerperium and infants. In line with this policy, regular training programmes are carried out to provide all staff with the necessary knowledge and skills about breastfeeding and breast milk.

In our hospital, all pregnant women receiving services are given comprehensive information about the benefits of breast milk, breastfeeding techniques and practices. Except for medical necessities, it is recommended that babies aged 0-6 months be exclusively breastfed. After the sixth month, breastfeeding supported by appropriate supplementary foods is encouraged until the age of two and beyond.

Mothers are provided with professional training and support in initiating breastfeeding within the first half hour after birth. Mothers are provided with the necessary facilities in specially designed breastfeeding rooms so that they can breastfeed comfortably.

The use of breast milk substitute brands and the distribution of posters, brochures or gifts promoting such products are prohibited in our hospital. In addition, mothers who give birth are given practical training on how to breastfeed their babies and mothers who will be separated from their babies are guided on how to continue the breastfeeding process.

Mothers are given detailed information about the conditions for expressing and storing breast milk, and special care is taken to ensure that mother and baby stay together after birth and that visual and physical contact is not interrupted.

The use of bottles and pacifiers is prohibited in our hospital and mothers and family members are educated on this issue. Mothers are also supported to cope with any difficulties they encounter in breastfeeding after discharge.

In order to promote breastfeeding, mothers are reminded that they should breastfeed whenever they want to and are encouraged to breastfeed frequently and without time constraints.

Our institution adopts the policies of "Baby Friendly Hospital and Good Breastfeeding Practices" and meticulously fulfils these practices for the healthy growth of every newborn baby.