What is an IBCLC?
IBCLCs are the gold standard in Lactation Care. IBCLCs are certified by the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners (IBLCE), which requires re-certification every five years. To become an IBCLC we complete 90 hours of lactation-specific education, take health and science courses or hold a degree in a health sciences field, and have 1000 hours of lactation-specific supervised clinical experience. To achieve the re-certification we must take 75 hours of continuing education. IBCLCs collaborate with other members of the healthcare team.
When should you consult an IBCLC? The answers are not limited to this list:
Endless Feedings (usually this is more than 12 feeds in 24hr repeatedly)
You are not sure if your baby is getting enough to eat
Pain while nursing
Breast or nipple pain
Nipple damage (sore, cracked, blistered or bleeding)
Low milk supply
Oversupply
Plugged ducts/ Mastitis
Your baby has difficulty handling the flow of the milk
Baby is not latching or not able to maintain the latch
Baby is sleepy at the breast, not nursing actively
Tongue Tie/Lip Tie/Buccal Tie
Your baby has weight gain issues
Concerns about potential reflux
Prematurity
Twins/Triplets
Positioning
Pumping/Flange fit
Transition to solids
Back to work planning
Special health care needs
Breastfeeding and Lactation Education
Weaning/Milk Suppression
This list is not meant to cover every reason to consult an IBCLC.
IBCLCs can help in numerous ways in common, and complex feeding issues. We are uniquely positioned to assess and create a workable care plan with your feedback that keeps your specific goals in mind.
I highly recommend having a post-natal lactation consultation even if you feel that the feedings are going well. You can learn so much and know what to expect for the future. You will likely learn how to prevent problems. Everyone deserves that time to get their questions answered.
~Cathy Walker, MA, RN, IBCLC
Registered Nurse and Lactation Consultant
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