Titles in the breastfeeding community
When we talk about titles in the field of lactation, unfortunately, we are referring to qualifications that cannot be obtained within our country, as there is no institution that offers proper education in this area.
Awareness of global guidelines in this field is also relatively low in our region—not only on a societal level, but also among professionals, including healthcare workers who work with families and newborns.
As a result, it’s not uncommon for families in our country to seek support from abroad. Many mothers have also reached out to me, expressing their desire to receive formal education in this field (just as I did). So, if you’re interested in learning more about the education behind each title or certification, you’re in the right place!
Breastfeeding support comes in many forms: from emotionally grounded encouragement to the resolution of complex clinical situations. Across this entire spectrum, professionals working in this field share one common goal—to provide the care that families and their newborns need.
Professionals working in this field come from a wide range of educational backgrounds and training. That’s why, when facing a particular challenge, it’s important to be aware of this factor—so you can choose someone who can offer the most appropriate support for your individual situation.
Globally, there are three main categories of professionals who provide lactation and breastfeeding support:
1. IBCLC Breastfeeding Consultant
International Board Certified Lactation Consultant
Qualifications:
A person with a medical background or someone who has completed relevant education in specific medical fields.
Experience/Training:
- 90 hours of specific lactation education,
- 300-1000 hours practical work with families
- passed final exam
Scope of Practice:
Provides professional support in lactation management, and educates families, healthcare workers, and others in the field of human lactation.
2. Breastfeeding Counceler / Specialist
There are various titles within this category, depending on the institution providing the education: CLC, CBE, CBS, LEC, BFC, BEC… you can find more information here..
Qualifications:
/
Experience/Training:
- The duration varies depending on the certificate and title: from 20 to 120 hours of education, or specific lactation education (if it serves as a stepping stone toward the IBCLC certification).
- A successfully passed exam that grants the certification.
Scope of Practice:
Provides professional education and support to families in managing breastfeeding, as well as addressing common basic challenges and problems.
2. Peer Counselor
This category includes organizations that offer support from mother to mother, or family to family, such as La Leche League, WIC Peer Counselor…
Qualifications:
Personal experience with breastfeeding.
Experience/Training:
- The duration varies depending on the organization: 18 to 50 hours of education.
Scope of Practice:
Provides reliable information on breastfeeding, encouragement, and community support.
Based on my experience and education, the most important thing when choosing someone to help you face your challenge is:
- the person should have specific lactation education (a university degree in medicine alone is not sufficient);
- to keep up with the latest developments in the field of breastfeeding and lactation;
- to listen to you carefully and conduct a thorough assessment of your situation;
- to be willing to seek out information and research in order to help you with your challenge;
- to be aware of their limits and scope of practice.
Only in this way can you build trust and receive the support you deserve… the support that every family deserves.
