Promoting Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiatives (BFHI) in Ghana
Theme: “Building a Healthier Future for Ghana’s Infants through Breastfeeding-Friendly Hospitals”
Introduction
The Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI), launched by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF), is a global effort aimed at promoting breastfeeding and improving infant nutrition. In Ghana, where malnutrition remains a leading contributor to infant mortality and stunting, BFHI has the potential to transform maternal and child health outcomes. By equipping healthcare facilities to support exclusive breastfeeding and optimal infant nutrition, the BFHI can help Ghana achieve its Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 2: Zero Hunger, and Goal 3: Good Health and Well-being.
Featured: A short clip from UNICEF GHANA
Why BFHI is Crucial for Ghana
- Breastfeeding as a Nutritional Foundation:
Exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life provides infants with essential nutrients, strengthens their immune systems, and protects them from infections. Research in Ghana has shown that exclusive breastfeeding reduces neonatal mortality by up to 45%.
- Addressing Malnutrition:
Malnutrition is a major public health issue in Ghana, with stunting rates among children under five as high as 18% (UNICEF, 2020). BFHI promotes breastfeeding, which is proven to combat malnutrition by ensuring infants receive adequate nutrients in their formative months.
- Support for Mothers:
Many mothers in Ghana face challenges with breastfeeding, such as lack of education, cultural stigmas, and inadequate maternity support. BFHI-trained hospitals provide mothers with skilled counseling and the knowledge they need to initiate and sustain breastfeeding.
- Economic Benefits:
Breastfeeding is a cost-effective way to improve child health and reduce healthcare costs. By reducing infant illnesses such as diarrhea and pneumonia, BFHI helps lower healthcare expenditures for families and the nation.
Impact of BFHI on Breastfeeding and Infant Nutritional Health in Ghana
- Increased Rates of Exclusive Breastfeeding:
Studies conducted in BFHI-accredited hospitals in Ghana show higher rates of exclusive breastfeeding (60-80%) compared to non-BFHI hospitals. The initiative encourages early initiation of breastfeeding within the first hour after birth, which is critical for infant health. - Reduced Infant Morbidity and Mortality:
BFHI hospitals report fewer cases of neonatal infections and malnutrition-related conditions, as exclusive breastfeeding builds stronger immunity in infants. - Improved Maternal Confidence:
Mothers who deliver in BFHI-accredited hospitals are more likely to feel empowered and supported in their breastfeeding journey, leading to longer breastfeeding durations.
Key Recommendations from Research
- Expand BFHI Coverage:
Currently, only a fraction of Ghana’s hospitals are BFHI-accredited. Scaling up BFHI to more healthcare facilities, especially in rural areas, can improve breastfeeding rates nationwide. - Enhance Training for Healthcare Workers:
Research highlights the need for continuous training of midwives, nurses, and other healthcare professionals on breastfeeding counseling and support techniques. - Strengthen Community Engagement:
To sustain the impact of BFHI, community health workers and peer counselors should be engaged to provide ongoing breastfeeding support after mothers are discharged. - Address Cultural Barriers:
Culturally sensitive breastfeeding education should be integrated into BFHI programs to tackle myths and taboos surrounding breastfeeding. - Enforce Maternity Protection Laws:
Extend paid maternity leave and ensure workplaces provide breastfeeding-friendly environments, complementing the BFHI’s efforts at hospitals.
Documents for Further Reading
- Scale Up Support Services for Mothers and Families to Enhance Their Ability to Feed Their Babies and Young Children – Prof. Richmond Nii Okai Aryeetey
Web link: https://www.ug.edu.gh/news/scale-support-services-mothers-and-families-enhance-their-ability-feed-their-babies-and-young
- UNICEF & WHO BFHI Implementation Guidance (2018): A comprehensive guide for implementing BFHI practices in healthcare settings.
Web link: https://www.unicef.org/media/95191/file/Baby-friendly-hospital-initiative-implementation-guidance-2018.pdf
- Scaling Up Nutrition (SUN) Movement in Ghana Reports: Highlights progress in nutrition interventions, including BFHI.
