What is the difference between a certified breastfeeding specialist and a lactation consultant?

Understanding the Roles: Certified Breastfeeding Specialist vs. Lactation Consultant
In the realm of breastfeeding support, the terms “certified breastfeeding specialist” and “lactation consultant” are often used interchangeably, but they represent distinct roles with different qualifications and scopes of practice. Understanding these differences is crucial for new parents seeking the right support during their breastfeeding journey.
Lactation Consultant: A Specialized Healthcare Professional
A lactation consultant is a healthcare professional who has undergone extensive training in breastfeeding and lactation management. The most recognized credential for lactation consultants is the International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC). To earn this certification, individuals must complete a rigorous education program, accumulate clinical experience, and pass a comprehensive exam. IBCLCs are equipped to handle a wide range of breastfeeding issues, from basic latch problems to complex medical conditions affecting breastfeeding. They often work in hospitals, clinics, and private practice, providing personalized support and education to mothers and families.
Lactation consultants are trained to assess breastfeeding techniques, provide solutions for common challenges, and offer guidance on maintaining milk supply. Their expertise allows them to work closely with mothers who may be experiencing difficulties, ensuring that both mother and baby receive the necessary support.
Certified Breastfeeding Specialist: A Focused Role
On the other hand, a certified breastfeeding specialist typically holds a certification from a lactation organization but does not have the same level of training or clinical experience as an IBCLC. This role is often filled by individuals who have completed a shorter training program, which may include coursework on breastfeeding basics and support techniques. Certified breastfeeding specialists can provide valuable information and support, particularly for new mothers who are looking for guidance on breastfeeding practices and general advice.
While they can assist with common breastfeeding challenges, certified breastfeeding specialists may not be equipped to handle more complex issues that require medical knowledge or clinical intervention. Their role is often more focused on education and support rather than clinical assessment and treatment.
Choosing the Right Support
For parents navigating the complexities of breastfeeding, the choice between a lactation consultant and a certified breastfeeding specialist can depend on their specific needs. If a mother is experiencing significant challenges or has medical concerns, seeking the expertise of an IBCLC is advisable. Conversely, for general support and education, a certified breastfeeding specialist may provide the necessary guidance without the need for clinical intervention.
In summary, while both certified breastfeeding specialists and lactation consultants play important roles in supporting breastfeeding mothers, their qualifications and scopes of practice differ significantly. Understanding these distinctions can help parents make informed decisions about the type of support they need during their breastfeeding journey.

Is a lactation consultant a specialist?

A lactation consultant is a health professional who specializes in breastfeeding (chestfeeding) and in offering human milk to infants. You can visit a lactation consultant while you’re pregnant, right after you give birth or several months into breastfeeding.

What is the difference between a certified breastfeeding counselor and a lactation consultant?

IBCLCs tend to come from a clinical background—many are doctors and registered nurses—while CLCs are usually more holistic-minded (think registered midwives and doulas). If you’re more academic minded and feel better in the hands of someone with extensive certification, then an IBCLC might be the best fit.

What certifications do you need to be a lactation consultant?

Each pathway requires the completion of fourteen health science prerequisite courses, 95 hours of lactation-specific coursework, and 300-1000 hours of supervised clinical experience. This is all structured to prepare you for the IBCLC exam which is available twice a year.

What can a CLC do?

Certified Lactation Counselor (CLC) Overview
CLCs are often the first point of contact for mothers who are experiencing difficulties with breastfeeding. They are able to provide accurate information, demonstrate effective breastfeeding techniques and troubleshoot problems.

Should I become a CLC or IBCLC?

Becoming an IBCLC can lead to a higher salary compared to a CLC, especially when working in clinical or hospital settings. And for those interested in building a private practice, the earning potential can be even more significant. In the US, the average hourly pay for CLCs is $29, compared to $42 an hour for IBCLCs.

Does insurance cover CLC?

Usually, yes! The Affordable Care Act (ACA) mandates that health insurance plans cover breastfeeding support, counseling, and equipment for the duration of breastfeeding. Unfortunately, your lactation consultation coverage may vary depending on the type of insurance plan you have.

Can you be a lactation consultant without a degree?

While anyone, regardless of education and training, may use the “lactation consultant” title, the standard in the field is for lactation consultants to become certified and registered as an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC).

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

How much does a CLC get paid?

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 the difference between CLC and IBCLC?

How are IBCLCs different from CLCs? A Certified Lactation Counselor (CLC) is a lower credential than IBCLC, appropriate for helping breastfeeding parents with simple problems. To obtain the CLC credential, a candidate only has to take a 4.5-day course and a test.