Montbrison maternity Hospital Achieves Prestigious IHAB Certification, Joining Elite circle of French Excellence
Montbrison, Loire, France – june 30, 2025 – The Montbrison maternity hospital has been officially recognized with the IHAB (Initiative Hospital Initiative of Babies) label, a distinction awarded by the World Health Institution and UNICEF [[1]]. This achievement places the hospital among a select group of only 80 maternities nationwide recognized for exceptional perinatal care, with Firminy being the only othre hospital in the Loire region to hold this honor.
The IHAB program, launched in 1992, is an international initiative focused on improving the quality of care for pregnant women, newborns, and mothers [[3]]. It emphasizes a “bienveillance and partnership” approach between parents and healthcare providers, prioritizing the needs and rhythms of both mother and child [[2]].
Director Edmond Mackowiak hailed the certification as a validation of years of dedicated effort and a “complete metamorphosis of hospital practices” initiated in 2021. The hospital underwent a significant overhaul, placing family well-being at the core of its services. A two-year period of internal review and method reimagining preceded the formal request process in 2023.
Revolutionizing perinatal Care:
The hospital’s change encompasses a holistic approach to care, extending from pre-conception support, including assisted procreation techniques, through the first months of the baby’s life. key changes include:
Personalized Continuity of Care: Each expectant mother is assigned a single midwife or gynecologist for the duration of her pregnancy, eliminating fragmented care.
Diverse Childbirth Preparation Options: The hospital now offers a range of preparation methods, including aquatic sessions, hypnosis, and conventional techniques, catering to individual preferences.
* Focus on a Serene Birthing Experience: The goal is to transform the anticipation of childbirth into a fulfilling and peaceful journey.
Despite handling 664 births last year,the Montbrison maternity hospital has successfully maintained a high standard of care and reception. This IHAB certification underscores the hospital’s commitment to providing exceptional, family-centered perinatal support.
[CTA: Learn more about the Montbrison Maternity Hospital and its IHAB-certified services at [Hospital Website Link]]