IBCLC Scope of Practice: What IBCLCs Can Do

If you’re a breastfeeding mom, chances are you’ve heard of the International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC). IBCLCs are highly-trained professionals who specialize in breastfeeding support and advice. But what do they actually do? What is within the scope of their practice? Keep reading to find out!

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.