What is an IBCLC and why do I need one?
An IBCLC is an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant.
IBCLCs are governed by the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners (IBLCE). IBLCE sets the standard for the education, clinical experience, continuing education, subsequent testing, and professional conduct of IBCLCs.
Depending on a person’s education and clinical experience, an IBCLC must accumulate from 300 to 1000 hours of clinical experience and 95 hours of lactation specific education. Additionally, an IBCLC must have a health sciences background. After meeting all these requirements, a candidate sits for the IBLCE board exam. It’s a big scary test that makes any IBCLC or prospective IBCLC shake in their boots.
Please visit the IBLCE website for more information!
Your local IBCLC is the gold standard in lactation care. IBCLCs are the only clinicians who care for and assess both mother and baby. IBCLCs can be hands-on with babies. IBCLCs are comfortable with collaborating with your health care team, including other IBCLCs, your pediatrician, your OB/GYN or CNM, and YOU! IBCLCs advocate for families’ expressed needs and the medical needs of mother and baby. IBCLCs provide education in many forms so that parents can make informed decisions for infant feeding. IBCLCs are here to help you meet your goals.
An IBCLC might be for you if you:
are worried about milk supply or baby’s weight gain
are in pain, have broken skin, or have any skin concerns
want to exclusively pump
are expecting twins or higher order multiples and have questions about feeding management
have a history of breast augmentation or reduction
want to induce lactation
want to chest feed
have a baby with congenital conditions
have a history of autoimmune disease
have questions about tandem feeding
have questions about weaning
I became an IBCLC in September 2020. I gained my clinical experience in an outpatient breastfeeding clinic and birthing center with a NICU and a Special Care Nursery. I have helped hundreds of breastfeeding dyads. I have helped babies latch hours after birth and I’ve helped mothers wean their toddlers. Please reach out if you think you need an IBCLC. I have the experience and expertise to assist you with making an informed decision.
Let’s fall in love with breastfeeding!
