Training in Baby Friendly Hospital Initiative

The Baby Friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI) was initiated in India with focus on large hospitals initially and then spread to many parts of India. 'Ten steps to successful breastfeeding' form the basis of BFHI of which step 2 regarding training is critical for the success of this programme. The duration of training should be at least for 18 hours, including at least 3 hours of clinical practice. Programme managers and policy makers should take training of health care staff rather seriously for achieving the real success in implementing the BFHI policies laid down in steps 3 to 10.