What is an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant?

The credential International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) identifies an experienced member of the health care team who has acquired specialist skill, made an indepth study of breastfeeding and lactation, and passed an exam at Masters’ degree level of difficulty. IBLCE stands for International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners, the organisation that administers the international certification programme. IBLCE’s primary purpose is to certify individuals who provide quality care to babies and mothers worldwide.

IBCLCs adhere to a Code of Ethics and work within professional Standards of Practice. They are required to keep their knowledge and skills current, and must recertify every 5 years through continuing education or re-examination to remain registered.

Some IBCLCs work in private practice or in designated positions, though many use their skills in their existing roles, for example as midwives, medical practitioners, child health nurses and nutritionists. In some countries, there are hospitals and community services that now require all staff working with mothers and babies to become IBCLCs, to ensure the highest standard of care. For further information on the IBCLC credential or certification exam, visit: www.iblce-europe.org