What is a Lactation Consultant?

A Lactation Consultant can work as a health professional within a hospital, in a voluntary capacity or in private practice.

There are currently more than 17,000 International Board Certified Lactation Consultants in 75 countries across the world. Lactation Consultants have an expert understanding of human lactation. They have obtained an internationally recognised qualification (IBCLC) which informs mothers and other clinical professionals that they have the necessary expertise, knowledge and skills to support the mother/infant dyad (breastfeeding relationship). They are able to assist mothers at any stage of the breastfeeding process and employ strategies should breastfeeding difficulties be encountered.,

Lactation Consultants are governed by a code of ethics and have to provide on-going evidence of professional study and development. Practitioners need to recertify every five years and resit the examination every ten years.

For further information about Lactation Consultants click here.