Fenton, Mo - SSM Health St. Clare Hospital – Fenton is proud to announce that it has achieved the highly prestigious international Baby‐Friendly designation after a rigorous review process conducted by Baby‐Friendly USA, the organization responsible for bestowing this certification in the United States.
This distinguished honor demonstrates that SSM Health St. Clare Hospital ‐ Fenton is adhering to the highest standards of care for breastfeeding mothers and their babies. SSM Health St. Clare Hospital – Fenton is the third Baby‐Friendly facility in St. Louis. These standards are built on the Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding, a set of evidence‐based practices recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) for optimal infant feeding support in the precious first days of a newborn’s life.
“This is a true testament to our team's commitment to providing families with exceptional care," said Kyle Grate, SSM Health St. Clare Hospital ‐ Fenton president. "This interdisciplinary effort has taken time but will make a great impact on our ministry. At SSM Health St. Clare Hospital ‐ Fenton, mothers and their growing families are given the proper resources, information, and support to get a healthy start in life."
SSM Health St. Clare Hospital – Fenton joins a growing list of more than 20,000 Baby‐Friendly hospitals and birth centers throughout the world, 619 of which are in the United States. These facilities provide an environment that supports breastfeeding while respecting every woman’s right to make the best decision for herself and her family.
About Baby-Friendly USA
As the accrediting body and national authority for the Baby‐Friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI) in the United States, Baby‐Friendly USA is responsible for upholding the highest standards in infant feeding care by coordinating and conducting all activities necessary to confer the prestigious Baby‐Friendly designation and ensure the widespread adoption of the BFHI in the US. Learn more about Baby‐Friendly USA.