What to look for in a Lactation Consultant

When you have reached difficulty in your breastfeeding journey, finding a skilled IBCLC (internationally Board Certified Lactation Consultant) can be overwhelming. You are already exhausted, anxious, and simply want to feed your baby. Here is a brief summary of what to look for in a Lactation Consultant.

  1. Make sure they truly are an IBCLC. Many women out there claim to be an IBCLC when in reality they are just certified lactation educators/counselors. The difference is that an IBCLC has had significantly more schooling, and is capable of hands-on skilled care. A CLE (Certified Lactation Educator) has only had about 3 months of training, never took an exam, and is only educated in the ability to teach basics on breastfeeding. No hands-on care is provided. You and your baby deserve the real deal.

  2. Look at their specialty. Everyone's breastfeeding experience is unique, and some mothers have specific needs that only specialized IBCLCs can treat. I would find out how many years they have been in practice, have they dealt with your concerns in the past, and do you feel they are confident enough in the skills required.

  3. IBCLCs can do hands-on breastfeeding care, hand expression, suck assessments, and breast exams. However, their license does not cover the ability to prescribe any medications, diagnose medical conditions, or perform medical tasks such as needle aspirations, etc. Unless they are also an MD, or other medical professional.

  4. Feel them out. You are about to meet with a woman that hopefully connects with your personality. There are more holistic IBCLCs and there are more Western Medicine thinking IBCLCs. It is important that you find a provider that fits your comfort zone and can put you at ease. You are sharing vulnerable information, you should feel safe and comfortable.

  5. Price and Location. Some IBCLCs are willing to go into the home and do home consults. Some only offer clinic or office hours. Their prices should reflect that. Every IBCLC can set their own price, but I would be leary of anyone who puts a price based on the hour. No mom should feel the pressure of financial burden because of a time constraint. Find out what their fee includes: follow-up care, follow-up visits, texts, calls, emails, etc... Make sure they have liability insurance and are CPR certified as well as neonatal resuscitation.

  6. Insurance: Most insurance companies will reimburse for lactation care, or will allow the IBCLC to bill directly. I would look into if the IBCLC has an established NPI number or tax ID number. Do they offer superbills for insurance coverage?

  7. What do their reviews say about them? What have other mommas felt? Look at Yelp, look at their website, and ask your friends. Trust your gut more than anything.