The International MotherBaby Childbirth Organization (IMBCO) and the International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) have worked together to create a single global initiative that offers guidance and information in support of maternity care that is safe and respectful.  Created in 2018, The International Childbirth Initiative: 12 Steps to Safe and Respectful MotherBaby-Family Centered Maternity Care provides a roadmap and urges providers and facilities worldwide, who offer care to people during the childbearing year, to follow the simple steps to implement best practices that are evidence based and center the parent-baby dyad and optimizes maternal and newborn health. Lamaze International is a signatory for and partner endorsing the International Childbirth Initiative.

Here is a summary of the 12 Steps to Safe and Respectful MotherBaby-Family Centered Maternity Care:

Information about the Initiative is available in many languages from this link.

Consider registering for the ICI webinar series. This exciting series of webinars takes a deeper dive into each of the 12 steps that make up the initiative.  It is possible to watch the remaining webinars live and view all 12 in a recorded format.  Each webinar highlights a skilled perinatal professional who is a global leader and advocate for compassionate and respectful care that helps new families experience appropriate maternity care as they welcome a baby. Each webinar includes easily accessible slides and additional helpful resources. You can register for the series of 12 webinars here, and view previously recorded webinars by accessing them here.

Similar to Lamaze International’s Six Healthy Birth Practices, these 12 principles celebrate current evidence, shared decision-making, informed consent and encourage continued big-picture assessment of outcomes for both the parent and the newborn, regardless of the birth location or type of provider serving the family.  Simple and consistent guidelines applicable to the global community is important.  Having each webinar focus on just one of the 12 steps helps the international community of perinatal professionals and the consumers they serve more clearly understand each of the components.

Please consider signing up for the webinar series and incorporating these principles in the information that you share with families you work with around the globe.

Published: November 19, 2021

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