The International Code of Marketing of Breast-milk Substitutes was adopted in 1981 in response to unethical and inappropriate marketing practices of formula companies. As a result, millions of babies died, women did not breastfeed, and formula companies profited. Fast forward 40 years and the elements of the International Code continue to be relevant and vital in achieving optimal health outcomes for women, babies, and families.
It is a certification requirement that IBCLCs adhere to the articles of the International Code and undertake a minimum of 2 hours of education related to the Code.
It is a certification requirement that IBCLCs adhere to the articles of the International Code and undertake a minimum of 2 hours of education related to the Code.
Course Information
This short course is equivalent to 5 hours of learning. The 5 completed hours can be used as:
- Continuing Education Recognition Points (CERPs) for recertifying International Board Certified Lactation Consultants IIBCLCs) and/or
- Continuing Professional Development (CPD) for medical officers, midwives, nurses, and allied health professionals
This course provides health professionals with the opportunity to explore the International Code of Marketing of Breast-milk Substitutes ('Code') and subsequent World Health Assembly (WHA) resolutions in a conflict-free platform. The 'Code' was implemented in 1981 following the unfettered and unethical marketing practices of Code violating companies that inundated low-income countries with predominantly expired formula resulting in tragic consequences. The Code was extended to include bottles and teats and substances that divert women from exclusive breastfeeding. The WHO breastfeeding recommendations are to exclusively breastfeed up to about six months, then timely introduction of family foods in conjunction with continued breastfeeding, and breastfeeding beyond two years of the baby's life. The Code calls on political leaders and health care providers to engage with the principles of the Code through legislation and regulation to protect, promote and support breastfeeding.
Aligned to the IBLCE briefings, beginning in 2025, this course provides the minimum of (2) hours of education focused on the WHO Code for recertification by CERPs. The course is 5 hours of E CERPs, meeting the WHO Code requirements.
Aligned to the IBLCE briefings, beginning in 2025, this course provides the minimum of (2) hours of education focused on the WHO Code for recertification by CERPs. The course is 5 hours of E CERPs, meeting the WHO Code requirements.
Broad Aims of the Course
The broad aims for this course are:
- To enhance your understanding of the International Code of Marketing of Breast-milk Substitutes.
- Develop strategies to apply the Code to lactation practice.
- Recognise and report Code violations and violators.
Access Time
- This single, short course will be open for 30 days from the time of activation.
- You activate the course when it is convenient for you to commit the time and motivation to successfully complete the course.
- Once you have completed the course content, you will have access to the course content for the duration of the purchased time.
Learning Resources
The course is inbuilt with video presentations, self-directed learning activities and quizzes in each section. They are:
- Downloadable resources
- Links to additional content
- Self-directed learning (SDL) activities