How many years does it take to become a lactation consultant?

Becoming a Lactation Consultant: A Journey of Time and Commitment
The path to becoming a lactation consultant, specifically an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC), is both rewarding and demanding, requiring a significant investment of time and effort. The duration of this journey can vary widely, typically ranging from one to five years, depending on an individual’s prior education and experience.
Educational Background and Prerequisites
For those already working in healthcare—such as nurses, midwives, or doctors—the process can be expedited. These professionals may complete a one-year certificate program that equips them with the necessary skills and knowledge to become a lactation consultant. However, for individuals without a background in healthcare, the journey is more complex. They must first complete a health education program that meets the standards set by the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners (IBLCE).
Training and Clinical Hours
Regardless of the starting point, all aspiring lactation consultants must complete a minimum of 90 hours of lactation-specific education within the five years leading up to their application for the IBCLC exam. Additionally, candidates are required to accumulate clinical hours, which can take anywhere from six months to two years to complete, depending on how many prerequisites they need to fulfill . This rigorous training ensures that candidates are well-prepared to support new families in their breastfeeding journeys.
Certification and Continuing Education
Once the educational and clinical requirements are met, candidates can sit for the IBCLC certification exam. This certification is valid for five years, after which consultants must engage in continuing education to maintain their credentials. This ongoing commitment to professional development is crucial in a field that continually evolves with new research and practices.
Conclusion
In summary, the time it takes to become a lactation consultant can vary significantly based on an individual’s background and the specific path they choose. While healthcare professionals may complete their training in as little as a year, those starting from scratch may find themselves on a journey that spans several years. Regardless of the timeline, the role of a lactation consultant is vital in supporting breastfeeding mothers and their infants, making the effort well worth it.

What schooling do you need to be a lactation consultant?

Health Sciences Education: Either be a recognized health professional OR complete 14 prerequisite health science courses. Lactation Education: Complete 90 hours of lactation-specific education, and 5 additional hours of communication skills specific to lactation.

Are lactation consultants in high demand?

Between the nursing shortage and the number of births, lactation consultant nurses will stay in high demand for some time.

How long is a lactation consultant program?

The time needed to become a lactation consultant is anywhere from one to five years. All three International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) pathways require applicants to take a minimum of 90 hours of lactation-specific courses within the five years immediately prior to applying to take the exam.

Is becoming a lactation consultant hard?

Preparing to take the exam to become an IBCLC is a rigorous, demanding, and years-long process. Of the over one thousand first time candidates who sat for the exam when I did, my exam score was the highest worldwide. I build upon this solid knowledge base by seeking out continuing education on a variety of topics.

How long is lactation consultant certification?

The time needed to become a lactation consultant is anywhere from one to five years. All three International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) pathways require applicants to take a minimum of 90 hours of lactation-specific courses within the five years immediately prior to applying to take the exam.

Can you make money as a lactation consultant?

The current average annual salary for lactation consultants in the United States is about $70,000, or $33.65 per hour. However, the salary range varies by state, with Massachusetts at the top of the list, where IBCLCs make $39.86 per hour on average, and Florida at the bottom, where they make around $28.46 per hour.

How hard is the CLC exam?

The CLC examination is a challenging certification test. Many people retake one or both portions of the exam for a variety of reasons, including if they are making up time from a previous exam location.

Do you have to be a RN to be a lactation consultant?

People who pursue careers in lactation consulting often come from other roles in health care and child birthing, such as being a registered nurse or midwife. Yet, those without a medical background should not be discouraged from pursuing a career as a lactation specialist.

How much does it cost to become a certified lactation consultant?

Price: FREE For California Residents through Santiago Canyon College.

Where do lactation consultants make the most money?

Highest paying cities for Lactation Consultants near United States

• Kealakekua, HI. $68.29 per hour. 8 salaries reported.
• Phoenix, AZ. $44.26 per hour. 11 salaries reported.
• Atlanta, GA. $41.90 per hour. 13 salaries reported.
• Aurora, CO. $41.12 per hour. 16 salaries reported.
• Denver, CO. $40.58 per hour.
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