How to become a lactation consultant

First, let me explain what an IBCLC is. IBCLC stands for international board certified lactation consultant. This certification is by exam. It is given once per year and you must renew your certification every 5 years. In order to be eligible to take the exam you must complete a series of tasks: breastfeeding education classes, hours assisting mothers with breastfeeding and other educational requirements. This process takes anywhere from 1 to 5 years to prepare for exam eligibility.

There are several options you have when you desire to help encourage breastfeeding. IBCLC is not the only choice. It is however, the most respected breastfeeding certification.

You can become a peer support person through the La leche league.This is were most LC's get their start. For most they joined the LLL as a mom, to gain support, developed a passion for breastfeeding and helping others, then themselves became peer leaders. Afterthe baby is weaned, the passion for breastfeeding education does not wane and then they become one of the two options below.

#1 You can become a certified breastfeeding educator. Many states offer this certification through their department of health. This certification is available with little or no previous experience/education required

OR

#2 you can work to become a IBCLC (international board certified LC). Notice I say work towards. This certificationtakes work. A lot of it. The criteria for taking the exam is extensive. It took me nearly 3 years to meet all the criteria and hoursrequired. And I had been a RN for nearly 10 years at the time. If you plan on working in a hospital or seeing clients on a consultationbasis, then the IBCLC is what you should work towards. The exam for this certification is given once per year in July.You can find more information about this certification at: IBLCE's website.

The path I chose was to first become a certified breastfeeding educator, while I was working to sit for my IBCLC exam.

An important note: here in the south, most hospitals require that IBCLC's are RN's as well. Something to research.

Trying to find an IBCLC locally? Go to www.ilca.org to find one near you.

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