Polizu Maternity Hospital, baby-friendly hospital. The history of one of the oldest obstetrics-gynecology units in Bucharest
By Andreea Bisinicu
- Articles
- 08 APR 26
In a crowded and ever-moving city such as Bucharest, there are places where life begins every day, discreetly, yet with a profound emotional charge. One such place is Polizu Maternity Hospital, a medical institution with tradition, respected both for its history and for the essential role it plays in the Romanian healthcare system. Part of the National Institute for the Health of Mother and Child “Alessandrescu-Rusescu”, this maternity hospital is considered one of the most important obstetrics-gynecology units in the country. Over time, Polizu Maternity Hospital has become not only a place where children are born, but also a symbol of medical professionalism, of care for mother and child, and of progress in the field of reproductive health. Its story is closely linked to the evolution of modern medicine in Romania and to the transformations of society in relation to motherhood and newborn care.
An institution with tradition and medical prestige
The history of Polizu Maternity Hospital reflects the development of the medical system in Romania. Although over the decades it has undergone numerous transformations, the institution has preserved its reputation as a center of excellence in obstetrics and gynecology. Being one of the oldest units of its kind in Bucharest, Polizu has witnessed entire generations of doctors, patients, and medical innovations.
Its affiliation with the National Institute for the Health of Mother and Child gives it a special status. It is not only a hospital, but also a university center where future doctors are trained. Teaching and research activity are essential components, contributing to the continuous development of medical practices and their adaptation to international standards.
Over time, Polizu Maternity Hospital has attracted elite doctors and has become a landmark for patients seeking safe and professional medical services. This tradition of excellence continues today, supported by a well-trained and dedicated medical team.
Modern and complex medical services
At present, Polizu Maternity Hospital offers a wide range of medical services, adapted to the complex needs of patients. From routine consultations to complex surgical interventions, the maternity hospital covers all aspects related to pregnancy, childbirth, and reproductive health.
One of the hospital’s strengths is the monitoring of high-risk pregnancies. Pregnant women facing complications benefit from careful supervision and rapid intervention when necessary. The maternity hospital is also recognized for its expertise in fertility, offering solutions for couples who encounter difficulties in having children.
Births, whether natural or by cesarean section, are assisted by experienced medical teams. An important aspect for many patients is the possibility of giving birth with their attending physician, which provides additional comfort and confidence.
The hospital’s technical equipment meets modern standards. Operating rooms are properly equipped, and the neonatal intensive care unit ensures the care of newborns who require specialized medical support. All these contribute to increasing the safety of medical care and reducing risks.
International recognition: “Baby-friendly hospital”
A defining moment in the history of Polizu Maternity Hospital was the international recognition received in 1985, when the World Health Organization and UNICEF designated the institution as a “Baby-friendly hospital”. This title is not merely symbolic, but reflects compliance with strict standards regarding newborn care and the promotion of breastfeeding.
The “Baby-friendly hospital” program is based on the principle that the beginning of life has a major impact on long-term health. In this context, Polizu Maternity Hospital has implemented the “10 steps to successful breastfeeding”, a set of rules meant to support mothers and encourage the natural feeding of children.
This international recognition confirms not only the quality of medical services, but also the concern for the emotional and physical well-being of mothers and children.
The 10 steps to successful breastfeeding
One of the central pillars of the philosophy of Polizu Maternity Hospital is the promotion of breastfeeding. The 10 steps implemented within the hospital represent a model of best practices, recognized globally.
The first step consists of the existence of a written policy for the promotion of breastfeeding, communicated constantly to the entire medical staff. This ensures coherence and unity in approaching patients.
The second step involves training the staff so that doctors and nurses can provide adequate support to mothers. Continuous education is essential for the correct application of care principles.
Informing pregnant women is another important element. Expectant mothers are educated about the benefits of breastfeeding and how to manage this practice.
An essential moment is the initiation of breastfeeding within the first 30 minutes after birth. This contributes to establishing the bond between mother and child and to stimulating lactation.
Mothers are also instructed on how to breastfeed correctly and how to maintain milk secretion, even in difficult situations. Exclusive feeding with breast milk is encouraged, except in cases where the doctor recommends otherwise.
The “rooming-in” system, through which mother and child remain together permanently, is another important practice. It facilitates closeness and the adaptation of the newborn.
Breastfeeding on demand, avoiding pacifiers, and supporting breastfeeding support groups complete this complex system, which emphasizes the real needs of the child and the family.
A place where life begins and trust is built
For many families, Polizu Maternity Hospital is not just a hospital, but the place where a new stage of life begins. Choosing a maternity hospital is an important decision, and Polizu offers a balance between professionalism, safety, and empathy.
The experience of childbirth is a complex one, and the environment in which it takes place can deeply influence the perception of motherhood. Through the services offered and the attention given to patients, Polizu succeeds in creating a setting in which mothers feel safe.
At the same time, the educational role of the institution contributes to the training of a new generation of doctors, prepared to carry forward the high standards of this profession.
Polizu Maternity Hospital in the context of modern medicine
In an era in which medicine evolves rapidly, Polizu Maternity Hospital remains a point of reference. Adapting to new technologies and to the current demands of patients is essential for maintaining relevance.
Through investments in equipment, professional training, and research, the institution continues to provide quality services. At the same time, it preserves the values that established it: respect for the patient, responsibility, and care for life.
Thus, Polizu Maternity Hospital is not just a medical unit, but a symbol of the evolution of the Romanian healthcare system and of the importance given to the health of mother and child.
In the end, the story of this maternity hospital is one of dedication, progress, and humanity. It is the place where science meets emotion, and every beginning of life is treated with the respect and attention it deserves.
We also recommend: Bucur Maternity Hospital, a brief history. Few Romanians know it was built from the donation of industrialist Dumitru Mociorniță