So You Want to Be an IBCLC?

An IBCLC- International Board Certified Lactation Consultant- is a healthcare professional who specializes in the clinical management of breastfeeding. IBCLCs are certified by the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners (IBLCE) and are trained to provide expert advice and support to breastfeeding mothers and their infants. Their responsibilities include:

1. Providing education and support to breastfeeding mothers.
2. Assisting with breastfeeding techniques and addressing common challenges such as latch difficulties, low milk supply, and nipple pain.
3. Developing care plans for mothers and babies with special needs, including premature infants or those with health conditions.
4. Collaborating with healthcare providers to ensure comprehensive care for breastfeeding families.
5. Conducting research and staying updated on the latest evidence-based practices in lactation.

IBCLCs work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, private practices, and community health programs.

Whether it’s your passion for supporting breastfeeding families, your own breastfeeding experiences, a desire to promote infant health and nutrition, or a commitment to empowering parents through education and support, the journey to becoming an IBCLC is just around the corner.

How to become an IBCLC: 

First- Meet Your Prerequisites:

• Health Sciences Education: You must have a background in a health sciences field, which typically involves holding a degree or diploma in a related field. This can include nursing, midwifery, dietetics, or other healthcare professions. Alternatively, you can complete specific health science education courses outlined by the IBLCE.
• General Education Requirements: You need to complete 14 health sciences courses, such as biology, human anatomy, infant and child growth, and development, nutrition, psychology, and sociology.

Next- Get Your Lactation Education:

• You must complete at least 95 hours of lactation-specific education within the 5 years immediately prior to applying for the exam. This education must cover various aspects of lactation and breastfeeding.

Third- Get Your Clinical Experience:

• There are three pathways to obtain the required clinical experience:
  • Pathway 1: This pathway is for those who have already been working in a clinical setting providing lactation support (e.g., nurses, midwives). You need to complete 1,000 hours of lactation-specific clinical practice within the 5 years prior to applying.
  • Pathway 2: This pathway involves completing a comprehensive, accredited lactation education program that includes supervised clinical practice. This program must be accredited by an organization recognized by IBLCE.
  • Pathway 3: This is for those who have arranged their clinical experience under the mentorship of an IBCLC. You need to complete 500 hours of supervised lactation-specific clinical practice.

Finally- Pass the Exam:

• Once you have met the education and clinical experience requirements, you can apply to take the IBCLC certification exam. The exam is offered twice a year and consists of multiple-choice questions designed to assess your knowledge and skills in lactation consulting.