Somehow I stumbled through and breastfed that child for several years – and then I had my second baby, and everything was so. much. worse. Fortunately, I had my first (mostly successful) breastfeeding under my belt, which helped me to be better advocate for myself and breastfeed that child for almost 3 years.

Fast forward to today, and I’m an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) myself. I know firsthand how overwhelming the early days of breastfeeding can be, and I love helping parents navigate this journey with more confidence and less stress. It’s a sacred space to be in, and I’m so grateful to be able to help new moms navigate those often dark-feeling weeks.

But what exactly do lactation consultants do? If you’ve ever wondered if all we do is just push a baby on the breast and tell you “best is breast”, let me break it down for you. We do a lot more!

Keep in mind that while IBCLCs all should have the basic level of training, not all are specialized in the same things. If there is a specific concern you have – make sure you do your research before booking!

We Help You Get a Good Latch (Because Ouch, It Shouldn’t Hurt!)

One of the biggest reasons people come to a lactation consultant is because breastfeeding is painful. A deep, effective latch is key to comfortable and efficient feeding, but getting there isn’t always straightforward. As an IBCLC, I assess how your baby latches, look for any anatomical issues (like tongue ties – though we cannot diagnose), and teach positioning tricks to make things easier.

Sometimes, just the most minor tweak – like adjusting your baby’s chin or changing their angle – can make a world of difference.

We Troubleshoot Milk Supply Worries

Some moms worry they aren’t making enough milk. Others feel like they have too much. (Yep, oversupply can be just as challenging as low supply!) I help moms figure out what’s really going on with their milk supply by looking at things like baby’s weight gain, feeding frequency, and diaper output. I also teach ways to increase supply if needed – whether it’s through more frequent nursing, power pumping, or even dietary tweaks.

We Support Pumping and Bottle-Feeding Moms, Too

Breastfeeding isn’t just about nursing. Many moms pump, whether they’re going back to work, exclusively pumping, or supplementing with bottles. I help parents:

• Find the right pump and flange size (because a bad fit can wreck your supply!)
• Create a pumping schedule that keeps their milk supply strong
• Safely store and prepare breast milk
• Navigate bottle feeding so baby still prefers the breast
• Help with bottle refusal

Basically, if it involves getting milk from breast to baby, we help with it.

We Help With Special Circumstances

Every breastfeeding journey is unique, and some parents face extra challenges. As an IBCLC, I’ve worked with:

• Preemie parents whose babies are in the NICU
• Moms with medical conditions (like PCOS or thyroid issues) that affect milk supply
• Babies with tongue/lip ties who struggle to latch
• Parents of multiples figuring out tandem feeding
• Adoptive or non-birthing parents who want to induce lactation

No matter the situation, our job is to find a plan that works for you and your baby.

We Provide Emotional Support (Because Breastfeeding Is a Whole Journey)

Yes, lactation consultants focus on the technical aspects of breastfeeding, but we also know that feeding your baby is so much more than mechanics. It’s emotional. It’s exhausting. And sometimes, it’s downright frustrating.

I always tell parents, You’re not failing if you need help. You’re just learning. And you don’t have to figure it all out alone.

When Should You See a Lactation Consultant?

If you’re struggling with breastfeeding, pumping, or bottle feeding, reach out. But honestly? You don’t have to wait until there’s a problem. A prenatal consult can help you get ahead of the game, and even a quick check-in postpartum can prevent small issues from turning into big frustrations.

At the end of the day, my job isn’t to push breastfeeding on anyone—it’s to help you feed your baby in a way that works for your family. Whether that’s nursing, pumping, combo feeding, or something in between, you deserve support.

So, if you’ve been wondering, Do lactation consultants actually help? The answer is a resounding yes.

And if this sounds like something YOU want to do, it’s a wonderful field that always needs more caring practitioners. Be sure to grab one of our free guides to get started:

• IBCLC Made Easy: Making Sense of the Process
• IBCLC Biz Made Easy

The post What Exactly Do Lactation Consultants Do? appeared first on Lactation Consultant Ed.

Let me take you through what a lactation consultant does, and why they’re an invaluable resource for so many families.

Support at Every Stage of the Breastfeeding Journey

Lactation consultants are trained professionals who specialize in all things breastfeeding and lactation. From the very first moments after birth through weaning (and even beyond), they are there to help parents navigate the ups and downs of feeding. Their goal is to ensure that both mom and baby are healthy, happy, and supported in their breastfeeding relationship.

Whether it’s in a hospital setting, a clinic, or even in the comfort of a family’s home, lactation consultants provide hands-on assistance, education, and emotional support. The journey to successful breastfeeding looks different for everyone, and lactation consultants tailor their guidance to fit each family’s unique needs.

What Does a Lactation Consultant Help With?

Lactation consultants can support families in a wide range of scenarios. Here are just a few of the key things they help with:

1. Latching and Positioning One of the most common reasons families seek help from a lactation consultant is trouble with latching. A good latch is essential for both mom’s comfort and baby’s ability to transfer milk effectively. Lactation consultants use various techniques and positions to guide parents, making sure the baby is properly latched and feeding comfortably.

Sometimes it’s a simple tweak in positioning that makes all the difference. Other times, the issue may be more complex, and the lactation consultant will need to do a deeper assessment to identify potential challenges, like a tongue-tie or flat nipples.

2. Milk Supply Concerns A common worry for new moms is whether they’re making enough milk for their baby. Lactation consultants can help assess milk supply by observing feeds, checking baby’s weight gain, and asking the right questions. They can also provide strategies to increase milk production, such as adjusting feeding schedules or introducing pumping at certain times.

On the flip side, some moms may struggle with oversupply, and lactation consultants help with managing issues like engorgement or clogged ducts to make breastfeeding more comfortable and balanced.

3. Managing Pain and Discomfort Breastfeeding shouldn’t be painful, but for many moms, it can be—especially in the early days. From sore nipples to engorged breasts, lactation consultants are trained to troubleshoot the causes of pain and offer solutions. They’ll help identify whether discomfort is due to positioning, latch issues, or an underlying problem like mastitis, and they’ll provide strategies to alleviate the pain and promote healing.

4. Pumping and Bottle Feeding For moms who are pumping or combining breastfeeding with bottle feeding, lactation consultants offer guidance on how to maximize milk output with the pump, how to choose the right equipment, and how to maintain milk supply. They can also help navigate the transition to bottle feeding, ensuring the baby is still receiving all the benefits of breast milk even when not nursing directly from the breast.

5. Specialized Support for Unique Situations Not every breastfeeding journey goes according to plan, and some situations require specialized knowledge. Lactation consultants can help in cases where a baby is born premature, when the mother has a medical condition that may affect breastfeeding, or when the baby has oral restrictions like tongue-tie. They’re also experienced in supporting moms who need to relactate after a break from breastfeeding or who are inducing lactation for adoptive or surrogate-fed babies.

Why Lactation Consultants Matter

The truth is, breastfeeding can be hard. It’s a beautiful and natural process, but it doesn’t always come naturally. That’s where lactation consultants shine—they provide expertise, empathy, and hands-on guidance when families need it most.

A lactation consultant’s role is about more than just offering practical advice. It’s about empowering parents to trust their bodies, encouraging confidence in their ability to feed their baby, and helping them meet their personal breastfeeding goals—whether that’s exclusively breastfeeding, combo feeding, or pumping.

Where Do Lactation Consultants Work?

You can find lactation consultants in a variety of settings:

• Hospitals: Many lactation consultants work in maternity wards, offering support to new mothers in the hours and days following birth.
• Private Practice: Some IBCLCs offer one-on-one consultations either in-home or through virtual visits, providing personalized care.
• Breastfeeding Clinics: These clinics often employ lactation consultants who specialize in everything from prenatal education to postpartum support.
• Pediatric Offices: Some lactation consultants collaborate with pediatricians to help families whose babies have feeding challenges that impact growth and development.

Certification and Training

The most recognized credential for lactation consultants is the IBCLC (International Board Certified Lactation Consultant), which requires extensive education, hands-on clinical hours, and passing a rigorous exam. An IBCLC has a deep understanding of lactation, human anatomy, infant development, and breastfeeding challenges. This certification ensures that the consultant is equipped to provide comprehensive care.

Many lactation consultants also come from a background in nursing, midwifery, or other healthcare professions, which gives them a strong foundation in working with mothers and babies. But no matter their path, all IBCLCs share a passion for supporting families through the breastfeeding journey.

Bottom Line: Lactation Consultants Are a Lifeline for Families

When breastfeeding challenges arise, lactation consultants are there to provide expert guidance, reassurance, and a helping hand. Whether it’s helping

The post What Do Lactation Consultants Do? A Closer Look at This Essential Role appeared first on Lactation Consultant Ed.

You may have heard of IBCLCs before, but you’re not sure what they do. Or maybe you know a little about their work, but you want to know more. 

Without a doubt, lactation consultants play an important role in the health and well-being of mothers and their infants. But what exactly do they do? What are their responsibilities? How can they help?

This article will answer all of those questions and more. It will provide an overview of the scope of practice for IBCLCs, detailing everything from the services that they offer to the ways in which they help mothers and babies. So, if you’re curious about IBCLCs, this is the article for you!

What is the IBCLC Scope of Practice?

IBCLCs are highly-skilled professionals who provide support, information, and guidance to breastfeeding mothers. They are also responsible for educating families, health care providers, and the community about breastfeeding.

In order to become an IBCLC, individuals must complete a rigorous education and training program. Once they have met all of the requirements, they must pass a rigorous exam in order to earn their certification.

IBCLCs are credentialed by the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners (IBLCE). The IBLCE is responsible for setting the standards for lactation consultant practice and certification.

So, what exactly does the IBCLC scope of practice entail? Let’s take a closer look (you can read the full scope of practice here)

IBCLCs offer a wide range of services to breastfeeding mothers. They provide support, information, and guidance on topics such as latch, positioning, milk production, pumping, and more. IBCLCs also work with mothers who are experiencing difficulties with breastfeeding, such as low milk supply or nipple pain.

In addition to providing one-on-one support, IBCLCs also educate families, healthcare providers, and the community about breastfeeding. They work to promote and protect the health of breastfeeding mothers and babies.

IBCLCs also play an important role in advocating for breastfeeding rights and access to services. They work to ensure that mothers have the support they need to breastfeed their babies successfully.

As you can see, the scope of practice for IBCLCs is quite broad. They provide a wide range of services to mothers and their families, all intending to promote and protect breastfeeding.

What does an IBCLC do?

IBCLCs, or International Board Certified Lactation Consultants, are healthcare professionals who help mothers with breastfeeding.

IBCLCs work with mothers both before and after childbirth to ensure that they can successfully breastfeed their babies.

In addition to providing information and support, IBCLCs also provide hands-on assistance with latching, pumping, and other breastfeeding techniques.

They may also help to troubleshoot common breastfeeding problems such as low milk supply or pain. IBCLCs are essential in ensuring that mothers have the knowledge and resources they need to breastfeed successfully.

How can you become an IBCLC?

If you’re interested in becoming an IBCLC, there are a few steps you’ll need to take. First, you’ll need to complete a rigorous education and training program. Once you’ve met all of the requirements, you’ll need to pass a rigorous exam to earn your certification. It typically takes 1-5 years to meet all the requirements.

IBCLCs are credentialed through IBLCE (International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners).

What are the benefits of being an IBCLC?

There are many benefits to being an IBCLC. Perhaps the most important is the satisfaction of helping mothers and their babies succeed with breastfeeding. IBCLCs also enjoy a high degree of flexibility in their work lives, as they can often set their own hours and choose to work part-time or full-time. Additionally, IBCLCs often earn high salaries and enjoy good job security.

Becoming an IBCLC is a time-consuming and expensive endeavor. However, the rewards of the job are many. If you’re passionate about breastfeeding and helping mothers, becoming an IBCLC may be your perfect career choice!

IBCLCs are highly skilled professionals who provide support, information, and guidance to breastfeeding mothers. They are also responsible for educating families, healthcare providers, and the community about breastfeeding. To become an IBCLC, individuals must complete a rigorous education and training program. Once they have met all of the requirements, they

How can you find an IBCLC in your area?

There are a few different ways to find an IBCLC in your area. The first is to contact your local hospital or health department and ask if they have any recommendations. Another option is to search for IBCLCs in your area on the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners website. Finally, you can also ask your friends, family, or other trusted sources for recommendations.

IBCLCs play an important role in supporting breastfeeding mothers and their families. If you’re looking for help with breastfeeding, an IBCLC may be just the person you need!

What is the future of the IBCLC profession?

The future of the IBCLC profession is bright! The demand for IBCLCs will continue to grow in the coming years. This is due, in part, to the increasing awareness of the importance of breastfeeding. Additionally, more and more hospitals are beginning to require that their employees have IBCLC certification.

If you’re considering a career in lactation, now is the time to do it! IBCLCs are in high demand and the profession is expected to continue to grow in the years to come.

The post IBCLC Scope of Practice: What IBCLCs Can Do appeared first on Lactation Consultant Ed.

Why a Business Plan is a Game Changer

1. Clarify Your Vision and Goals Imagine this: You’re so excited about helping moms and babies that you start jumping into consultations, workshops, and product sales without a clear plan. Without a business plan, you might find yourself scattered and overwhelmed. A business plan helps you lay out your vision—are you aiming to provide one-on-one consultations, run workshops, or perhaps even sell lactation products? Clearly defining your goals will keep you on track and focused.
2. Identify Your Target Market Who will benefit most from your lactation services? Are you focusing on first-time moms, experienced mothers, or maybe even preemies? Understanding your target market—like their specific needs, concerns, and preferences—will help you tailor your services and marketing efforts. It’s all about making sure you’re reaching those who need you the most.
3. Detail Your Services In the lactation business, clarity is key. Will you offer home visits, online consultations, breastfeeding support groups, or educational workshops? Maybe a combination of these? Clearly outlining what services you provide, and how they meet the needs of your target market, will not only help you stand out but also guide your day-to-day operations.
4. Map Out Your Financial Projections Financial planning might not be the most glamorous part of starting a business, but it’s crucial. How much will you charge for consultations? What are your expected expenses (think supplies, marketing, and maybe even insurance)? Projecting your revenue and costs will help you manage your budget effectively and attract potential investors if you need funding.

How to Craft Your Lactation Business Plan

1. Executive Summary Start with a snapshot of your lactation business. What’s your mission? What are you offering, and why? This section is like your elevator pitch—brief but compelling. It’s often written last but placed at the beginning of your plan.
2. Company Description Dive into the heart of your business. What inspired you to start a lactation business? What are your values, and how do they influence your approach? Share your story and outline what makes your business unique.
3. Market Analysis Get to know your market. What’s the demand for lactation support in your area? Are there existing providers, and how can you offer something different or better? This is where you analyze trends, identify gaps, and understand your potential clients.
4. Organization and Management Who’s behind the business? Whether it’s just you or a team of lactation consultants, outline the structure. Include details about your qualifications, experience, and roles. This helps establish credibility and shows potential clients and partners that you’re prepared.
5. Services Offered Describe what you’ll be providing. Will you offer private consultations, group classes, online resources, or a combination? Be specific about how these services will benefit new mothers and families and how they set you apart from competitors.
6. Marketing and Sales Strategy How will you let new parents know about your services? Will you use social media, collaborate with pediatricians and birth workers, or host free workshops? Outline your strategies for attracting and retaining clients. Think about your unique selling points and how you’ll communicate them.
7. Financial Projections Break down your financial outlook. Estimate your start-up costs, set your pricing strategy, and project your monthly expenses and revenue. This section should also include your plan for funding if needed, like personal savings, loans, or grants.
8. Appendices Add any extra information that supports your plan—perhaps testimonials from previous clients, certifications, or market research data. This gives your plan additional weight and credibility.

Final Thoughts

Creating a business plan for your lactation consultancy might not be the most exciting task, but it’s one of the most important steps you can take. It’s like having a roadmap for your journey, helping you navigate the bumps along the way and keep your eyes on the destination.

Remember, your business plan isn’t set in stone. It should evolve as your business grows and market conditions change. Regularly updating it will help you stay on top of your game and adapt to new challenges and opportunities.

So grab your favorite drink, sit down, and start outlining your lactation business plan. It’s your first step toward making a positive impact on new families and setting yourself up for a thriving business. You’ve got this!

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