The IBCLC is knowledgeable, skilled in lactation and breastfeeding management whose primary focus is the provision of education, assistance and support to breastfeeding women and children.

IBCLCs function as members of the health care team to promote, support and protect breastfeeding by;

Empowering women to make informed infant feeding choices to help them successfully meet their breastfeeding goals.

Educating women, families, health professionals and the community about breastfeeding and human lactation.

Acting as an advocate for breastfeeding as the child-feeding norm

Providing holistic, evidence based breastfeeding support and care, from preconception to weaning, for women and their families

Respecting the privacy, dignity and confidentiality of mothers and families.

Childbirth Preparation International Board Certified Lactation consultants (IBCLCs) have demonstrated specialized knowledge and clinical expertise in breastfeeding and human lactation and are certified by the International Board of lactation consultant Examiners (IBCLE).

For full document from IBCLE please visit http://www.iblce.org/upload/downloads/ScopeOfPractice.pdf