An IBCLC is the only recognized professional authority in lactation care.  Achieving the IBCLC credential requires years of study and clinical experience before becoming eligible to sit for the IBLCE board exam.  There are many other certificate programs out there and unfortunately some of these can be confusing even to those who work in the medical field.  It is important for mothers to know who they are getting support from.

As you can see from the list above, it is understandable why there is confusion.  The Texas Breastfeeding Coalition believes that every mother deserves quality care when she is having breastfeeding difficulty.  There are many knowledgeable individuals among us.  Even someone who has breastfed her own may have some great tips and advice for a new nursing mother, but  if you’re really experiencing problems with breastfeeding we would encourage you to ask for an IBCLC.  The Surgeon General’s Call to Action to Support Breastfeeding states this:

“International Board Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLCs) are health care professionals who specialize in the clinical management of breastfeeding. The only health care professionals certified in lactation management, they carry certification by the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners (IBLCE). Like all other U.S. certification boards for health care professionals, the IBLCE operates under the direction of the U.S. National Commission for Certifying Agencies and maintains rigorous professional standards. IBCLC candidates must demonstrate sufficient academic preparation as well as experience in supervised, direct consultation on breastfeeding to be eligible to take the certification exam.”

Ask your OB if you will have access to an IBCLC after delivery,  ask your Pediatrician if they employ an IBCLC in their practice.

For a list of Lactation Consultants/IBCLC in your area, please visit USLCA.org to find IBCLC.