IBLCE Supports Breastfeeding Families, IBCLCs and Those Providing Lactation Care in Middle East

IBLCE holds in its thoughts those in the Middle East who are experiencing fear, uncertainty, worry, and loss within their families and communities. Access information on breastfeeding in emergencies from the WHO, UNICEF, and the Global Breastfeeding Collective. 

IBLCE is grateful to those IBCLCs and other breastfeeding supporters providing care and support to so many families facing extraordinary difficulties during this profound time.

IBLCE Statement on X (formerly Twitter)

IBLCE has been following the recent news on X (formerly Twitter) and, in an abundance of caution, has made the determination to suspend activity on the platform. X’s new policy on biometric data does not align with IBLCE’s values and privacy policies and, therefore, we will be deactivating the IBLCE account on X effective immediately. 

To stay up to date with IBLCE news, we hope you will find us on one of the following platforms:

Find the latest news on our affiliate websites:

Privacy and security are of importance to IBLCE, and this decision was made with this in mind.

Continuing Education Self-Assessment Now Available to IBCLCs Due to Recertify in 2023

The IBCLC Continuing Education (CE) Self-Assessment is now available to all IBCLCs due to recertify in 2023.

The CE Self-Assessment is required for all IBCLCs who choose to recertify by CERPs.  IBCLCs due to recertify in 2023 were sent an email with instructions to access the CE Self-Assessment. If you have not received your email, please check your spam folder.

You can take the CE Self-Assessment now! Of the 75 total CERPs required in 2023, up to 20 CERPs (30%) will be based on the results from your CE Self-Assessment. The remaining CERPs may be earned based on your career goals, practice setting, and interest areas. CERPs earned prior to taking the CE Self-Assessment may count towards the total number of CERPs required based on your self-assessment results. There are many ways to earn CERPs; see the IBLCE March 2022 Briefing.

To recertify by CERPs, you will need to complete all requirements and submit your recertification by CERPs application by September 30, 2023.

 Learn more about all recertification requirements in 2023 here:

Requirement 1: Basic Life Support Education

Requirement 2: 250 Hours of Practice in Lactation Consulting

Requirement 3: Select & Complete One Recertification Method

There are now two recertification options for each five-year recertification cycle:
The IBCLC examination remains an option for recertification but is no longer a requirement.

For IBCLCs due to recertify in 2024 and beyond, we will provide more information about when you will be eligible to take the CE Self-Assessment by the end of 2022.

If you have questions about your specific situation, please reach out to the IBLCE location that serves you.

IBLCE Statement on the Shortage of Commercial Milk Formulas

The International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners® (IBLCE®) is strongly committed to advancing global public health, and we are deeply concerned about the impact that the current shortage of formula milk is having on families who rely upon these products for feeding their babies, particularly those infants with special medical requirements.  

IBLCE applauds recent steps that the US Federal Government and other public bodies have taken to address the situation, while noting that a confluence of factors have led to a “perfect storm” in which too many families experience stress, worry, and urgently seek guidance and resources for their babies and young children.

In the face of this situation, dedicated professionals who are International Board Certified Lactation Consultants® (IBCLCs), and other lactation support workers and volunteers, are providing guidance and direction to resources, as are staff with the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children; accredited nonprofit milk banks; and many community-based organisations and hospitals. 

IBLCE commends these IBCLCs and other lactation support workers, who are leading from the frontlines and providing information and care to families during such a difficult and challenging time. You are invaluable in your dedicated service, which helps advance global public health and serve our families!

Those seeking more clinically focused guidance may wish to visit the Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine.