An International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) is a health care professional who specializes in the clinical management of breastfeeding. IBCLCs are certified by the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners, under the direction of the U.S. National Commission for Certifying Agencies. The breastfeeding mother has her doctor, and the nursing baby has her Pediatrician; it is only the IBCLC that treats the mombaby as one unit. We are an important part of the mombaby healthcare team, reporting back to the health care providers.

Additionally, an IBCLC offers breastfeeding education and counseling, which are integral parts of the care provided by the IBCLC.  We educate parents and families and encourage informed decision-making about infant/child feeding and nurturing.  We use a practical problem-solving approach, sensitive to the mother’s culture/background, as well as her questions and concerns.  We provide preventative guidance to promote optimal breastfeeding practices and minimize the potential for breastfeeding problems or complications.  We are also here to provide positive feedback and emotional support for continued breastfeeding, especially in difficult or complicated circumstances.  We also share current evidence-based information and clinical skills in collaboration with other health care providers.