Closing International Breast/Chestfeeding Week: Midwifery Support for Infant Feeding in BC 

As International Breast/Chestfeeding Week (August 1–7) comes to a close, UBC Midwifery recognizes the essential role midwives play in supporting families through all infant feeding journeys. 

Midwives are highly skilled primary care providers who support parents in making informed choices about how to feed their babies. This includes breastfeeding, chestfeeding,  lactation, and is always guided by evidence and delivered with compassion and respect for each person’s unique circumstances. 

Midwives’ Role in Infant Feeding Care 

Under the BC College of Nurses and Midwives (BCCNM) Standards of Practice for Registered Midwives, midwives: 

• Provide counselling and education before and after birth 
• Offer hands-on support during the early postpartum days 
• Refer clients to International Board-Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLCs) or other specialists as needed 

Midwifery care is individualized and evidence-based, designed to help families meet their feeding goals while supporting physical, emotional and cultural needs. 

Training Future Midwives 

UBC Midwifery prepares graduates to provide inclusive, person-centred care that supports healthy outcomes for all families, regardless of feeding method. Our curriculum integrates infant feeding education with cultural safety, clinical skills, and interprofessional collaboration. 

Students learn to: 

• Share current, evidence-based information on breastfeeding, chestfeeding and human milk feeding 
• Identify when additional support is needed 
• Advocate for clients’ choices within the healthcare system 

Resources for Families and Professionals 

For more information and resources on breastfeeding and human milk feeding, we encourage you to explore: 

• World Health Organization – Global Strategy for Infant and Young Child Feeding 
• Public Health Agency of Canada – Valuable Tips for Successful Breastfeeding 
• La Leche League Canada 
• Baby-Friendly Initiative – Breastfeeding Committee for Canada 
• Canadian Association of Midwives – Position Statement on Breastfeeding 

Midwifery’s commitment to infant feeding care extends beyond this awareness week. UBC Midwifery is proud to support families in achieving their feeding goals through respectful, evidence-informed, and inclusive midwifery care.