The International Lactation Consultant Association (ILCA) is the professional association for International Board Certified Lactation Consultants® (IBCLC®) and other health care professionals who care for breastfeeding families. ILCA membership is open to all who support and promote breastfeeding; you can join at anytime and do not need to be an IBCLC to become a member.
Our vision is that the IBCLC is the globally recognized professional authority in lactation.
Our mission is to advance the International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) profession worldwide through leadership, advocacy, professional development, and research.
Click here to view ILCA's new Strategic Plan.
Read the 2013 President's Letter to learn more about ILCA's current activities in promoting the profession of lactation consultancy worldwide.
ILCA is a non-governmental organization (NGO) with UNICEF and the World Health Organization (WHO). ILCA provides official representatives to many organizations, including:
Global Advocacy Reports - Read reports from ILCA's Liaisons to political and legislative organizations
What is an IBCLC?
An International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) is a health care professional who specializes in the clinical management of breastfeeding. An IBCLC is certified by the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners, Inc. under the direction of the US National Commission for Certifying Agencies. An IBCLC works in a wide variety of health care settings, including hospitals, pediatric offices, public health clinics, and private practice. Read more about the Role and Impact of the IBCLC. Please visit ILCA's, What is an IBCLC? page to view the U.S. Surgeon General’s Call to Action: Increase Support for Breastfeeding Families, downloadable flyers and additional resources.
