What do I need to be a breastfeeding consultant?

Becoming a Breastfeeding Consultant: A Comprehensive Guide
In the realm of maternal and infant health, breastfeeding consultants play a pivotal role. These professionals, often referred to as lactation consultants, are specially trained to assist mothers in navigating the complexities of breastfeeding. Their expertise not only helps in establishing successful breastfeeding practices but also addresses various challenges that may arise during this critical period.
Understanding the Role of a Lactation Consultant
A lactation consultant is a healthcare professional who specializes in breastfeeding support. They provide guidance on nursing positions, latching techniques, pumping, and managing milk supply, among other aspects of breastfeeding. Their primary goal is to ensure that mothers and their babies have a positive breastfeeding experience, which can significantly enhance the mother-baby bond and contribute to the infant’s health.
Educational Pathways and Certifications
To become a breastfeeding consultant, one must navigate a structured educational pathway. There are several types of certifications available, each with its own requirements:
1. Certified Breastfeeding Counselor (CBC): This certification typically requires a shorter training program focused on basic breastfeeding support.

2. Certified Lactation Counselor (CLC): This designation involves more extensive training and is often pursued by those looking to provide more in-depth support.
3. International Board-Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC): This is the most recognized certification in the field. To qualify, candidates must complete a specific number of hours in lactation education and clinical practice, followed by passing a rigorous exam.
The path to becoming an IBCLC is particularly demanding, as it requires a combination of education, hands-on experience, and a commitment to ongoing professional development. Many aspiring consultants start with a background in healthcare, such as nursing or midwifery, which can provide a solid foundation for their lactation training.
Skills and Qualities of a Successful Consultant
Beyond formal education and certification, successful breastfeeding consultants possess a unique set of skills and qualities. Empathy and strong communication skills are essential, as consultants often work with new mothers who may be experiencing anxiety or frustration. The ability to provide reassurance and practical solutions is crucial.
Additionally, a deep understanding of the physiological and emotional aspects of breastfeeding is vital. Consultants must be adept at assessing individual situations and tailoring their advice to meet the specific needs of each mother-baby pair.
The Impact of Lactation Consultants
The presence of a lactation consultant can significantly influence a mother’s breastfeeding journey. Studies have shown that professional support can lead to higher breastfeeding rates and longer durations of breastfeeding, which are associated with numerous health benefits for both mothers and infants.
In conclusion, becoming a breastfeeding consultant is a rewarding endeavor that requires a blend of education, practical experience, and interpersonal skills. As advocates for breastfeeding, these professionals not only support mothers in their breastfeeding goals but also contribute to the overall health and well-being of families. Whether through formal training or personal experience, those interested in this field can find fulfillment in helping others navigate the beautiful yet challenging journey of breastfeeding.

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 much does it cost to become a certified lactation consultant?

Price: FREE For California Residents through Santiago Canyon College.

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 does it take to get your lactation consultant license?

one to five years
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.

How do I become a breastfeeding advisor?

You will need to have breastfed one child for at least six months. The breastfeeding pathway consists of 3 modules (counselling skills, applying counselling skills, understanding women’s experiences of breastfeeding): each requiring 2 study days and 5 tutorials.

Can I be a lactation consultant without being an RN?

Yes. Being an RN is not a requirement for certification as a lactation consultant.

Is there a demand for lactation consultants?

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

How much does a CLC make?

What are Top 10 Highest Paying Cities for Certified Lactation Counselor Clc Jobs

City	Annual Salary	Hourly Wage
San Francisco, CA	$70,303	$33.80
Santa Clara, CA	$70,081	$33.69
Sunnyvale, CA	$70,034	$33.67
Livermore, CA	$69,994	$33.65

What is required to be a lactation consultant?

Lactation Education: Complete 90 hours of lactation-specific education, and 5 additional hours of communication skills specific to lactation. Clinical Hours: Gain clinical experience in lactation care (number of hours varies based on the pathway) Exam: Take and pass the IBCLC exam (offered twice each year)

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.