Breastfeeding is natural, but it isn’t always easy. Lactation consultants are specialists who help families with problems such as latch difficulties, pain, low supply and feeding premature babies. Many are nurses or midwives with extra training.
Imagine a new mother in tears at 3am, with cracked nipples and a baby who won’t settle. She’s about to give up. A lactation consultant spends an hour with her, adjusts the latch, and builds a feeding plan. A week later she’s feeding comfortably and confidently.
What lactation consultants do
- Assess feeds and help with positioning and attachment
- Support with pain, low milk supply, mastitis and tongue-tie concerns
- Help families of premature or unwell babies, including expressing milk
- Educate staff and families, and support returning to work
The IBCLC pathway
The International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) credential, run by the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners, is recognised in many countries. Nurses and midwives usually qualify by completing lactation-specific education and a required number of clinical practice hours supporting breastfeeding families, then passing an exam. Check the current requirements on the IBLCE website, as they change.
But where do lactation consultants work?
Maternity units, neonatal units, community and public health teams, paediatric clinics, and private practice. Many nurses combine it with another role.
Your next step: Start logging the hours you spend supporting breastfeeding families now, and read the IBLCE eligibility guide to see which pathway fits you.
Sources: International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners, World Health Organization and UNICEF (Baby-friendly Hospital Initiative), International Lactation Consultant Association. This article is for general information.
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