Everything you need to become a lactation consultant
Everything you need to become a lactation consultant
How to Become a Lactation Consultant
Congratulations on your decision to pursue a career in lactation consulting! There are
many ways to become a lactation counselor or consultant. We’re here to help you find
the best path for you.
Lactation consultants come from many different backgrounds and professions. Our
students include nurses, dieticians, physicians, doulas, midwives, physical therapists,
speech-language pathologists, peer-to-peer counselors, and more. If you are
passionate about helping lactating families, earning a lactation consultant credential is
a great path to rewarding work.
Choosing a Lactation Credential
Lactation support professionals hold a variety of credentials. The best one for you
depends on your goals, background, and budget, as well as the setting you want to
work in and the type of lactation care you want to provide.
Entry-level certifications: When you earn a credential like the Certified Breastfeeding Specialist (CBS), Certified Lactation Counselor (CLC), Certified Breastfeeding Counselor (CBC), Certified Lactation Support Provider (CLSP), and others.
International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC): When you earn the
IBCLC, you can help families with the normal course of breastfeeding as well as the
most complex lactation challenges. Certification requires 95+ hours of lactation
training, college-level health science courses, and clinical experience as a hands-on
lactation helper.
LER Offers Both
You can earn the Certified Breastfeeding Specialist (CBS) credential right here at LER.
We also have everything you need to qualify to become an IBCLC and prepare for the IBCLC exam.
Education, clinical hours, and exam prep, all in one place
Become an IBCLC
An IBCLC:
- Holds the highest credential in the lactation care field.
- Joins the healthcare team in hospitals, clinics, and the community.
- Is able to support families with the most complex lactation challenges.
Certification Requirements *
- Complete 95+ hours of lactation training, complete health science courses, earn clinical hours, and pass the IBLCE exam.
- Recertify every five years through continuing education credits or by retaking the exam.
Become a CBS
A CBS:
- Supports families through pregnancy, breastfeeding initiation, and the normal course of lactation.
- Is able to start helping families right away.
- Is a respected member of the healthcare team.
- Can use their hours toward the IBCLC.
Certification Requirements *
- Complete 52+ hours of lactation education.
- Pass a certifying exam. (Exam is included in the course cost.)
- Renew your certification every five years.
*IBLCE’s requirements change. Find the most recent requirements at
https://ibclc-commission.org/
