Requirements for a Lactation Consultant

Many first-time mothers dream of the special bond that is created while breastfeeding their babies --- something no one else can achieve. While breastfeeding has been done since the beginning of time, many women have a hard time getting it right, which causes unnecessary damage to their self esteem and even to their babies' diets. Lactation consultants can help ease the process by providing support and recommendations to help the mother get through this tough period and go on to nursing success.

Education

In order to become a certified lactation consultant, the candidate needs to take 90 hours of lactation-specific education. She also must take classes in 14 other health-related topics in order to get a well-rounded understanding of the body. Licensed health professionals may qualify without the extra coursework. There are programs that offer the lactation classes, or parts of them, in one week to begin certification. There is an alternative "pathway," pathway two, for students to enroll in a one-year program in which the education and training are combined. There is also pathway three, for students who have a particularly unique situation that may allow them to meet requirements in an alternative way.

Clinical Hours

All candidates must complete 90 hours of training in a lactation-support capacity in any type of environment as long as it is supervised. The candidate must engage in activities that support mothers and babies, which can comprise the periods of pre-conception through weaning. Doctors, nurses and other health care professionals should find it easy to complete these hours. Other candidates can volunteer or find paid work at a hospital or WIC (Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children) office, or any other suitable venue. Candidates must complete 1,000 total hours in lactation-specific clinical experience.

Exam

All pathway one candidates must complete all of their requirements before applying for the certification exam. To apply, candidates must fill out an application form that can be found at the IBLCE (International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners) website, submit an exam fee of $490 (or higher for late postmarks.) Tests are administered at various testing centers across the U.S. Exam decisions can be appealed, and applicants can retake the test as many times as needed.

Continuing Education

Certification lasts for five years. Certified consultants must re-certify before the expiration date of their certification by getting 75 CERPs (Continuing Education Recognition Points). One point is equivalent to 60 minutes of instructional time. At least 50 CERPs must pertain to the instruction of lactation, while at least five CERPs must pertain to the ethics of breastfeeding. There are several well-known, approved CERP providers, such as La Leche League and Lamaze, both of which have branches across the U.S.