What are the requirements to be a lactation consultant?

In order to become an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant you will need to pass the IBCLE exam. The requirements to sit this exam are detailed on the website https://iblce.org/step-1-prepare-for-ibclc-certification/, and include a minimum of 90 hours of lactation-specific education.

Are lactation consultants in high demand?

Lactation consultants can be included in the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) listing for registered nurses. From 2019 to 2029, a 7% job growth rate is expected for registered nurses, which is faster than average job growth rate for all occupations during that time frame.

How much do lactation consultants get paid?

The current average annual salary for lactation consultants in the United States is about $70,000, or $33.65 per hour. However, the salary range varies by state, with Massachusetts at the top of the list, where IBCLCs make $39.86 per hour on average, and Florida at the bottom, where they make around $28.46 per hour.

Is lactation consultant a good job?

PRO: Being a lactation consultant is a pretty nifty and unique job, and people are often quite interested in what you do. It makes for good small talk. I know that not everyone is nonjudgmental about breastfeeding, and it makes it harder for people to trust me and harder for me to do my job well.

Can I become a lactation consultant online?

The LCTP is a comprehensive, online course designed to prepare you to take the IBLCE exam and for your career as a certified lactation consultant. The Certified Breastfeeding Specialist certificate CBS™ is awarded at the completion of this course.

How long does it take to become a lactation consultant?

The time needed to become a lactation consultant is anywhere from one to five years. All three International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) pathways require applicants to take a minimum of 90 hours of lactation-specific courses within the five years immediately prior to applying to take the exam.

Do lactation consultants make more than nurses?

The median annual salary for lactation consultants is $79,007, which means that half of consultants earn more than this and the other half earn less. This is higher than for nurses in general, as their median annual salary is $68,450.

How long will it take to become a lactation consultant?

IBCLC Requirements Certification is for 5 years, and recertification is required. After 5 years IBCLCs may re-certify by continuing education, but must re-certify by exam after 10 years.

How long does it take to become a certified lactation consultant?

Do lactation consultants wear scrubs?

Clinical uniform: Your clinical site(s) may require you to purchase and wear a particular jacket, scrubs, or other uniform.

Can I become a lactation consultant without being a nurse?

Some health care professionals, like nurses, doctors, and midwives, train to become lactation consultants so they can better meet the needs of their breastfeeding patients. It is not necessary to have an existing career as a health care professional to become a lactation consultant, however.

Do you need a college degree to be a lactation consultant?

There are several pathways to becoming a lactation consultant. Bachelor’s degree programs in nursing, health sciences, or public health with a lactation consultant certificate. Master’s degree programs in nursing, health sciences, or public health with a lactation consultant certificate.

How do I became a lactation consultant?

How to become a Lactation Consultant Complete lactation specific clinical practice – between 300-1000 hours* and; Complete at least 90 hours of education on lactation and breastfeeding and; Achieve a passing grade on the IBCLE examination

When to call a lactation consultant?

But if you are having ANY difficulty, it’s time to call a lactation consultant. Someone who calls herself a lactation consultant and has been given a certificate. For example, CLE, or CLC. Those letters mean that the individual has taken a course—usually about a week long– and given a certificate.

Do you have to pay for a lactation consultant?

According to HealthCare.gov, some insurance plans will cover the cost of a lactation consultant, while others may require pre-authorization from your doctor before paying for the visit. It truly depends on your insurance plan. There is a loophole, though.

When do you need to see a lactation consultant?

People see lactation consultants at different points throughout pregnancy, after delivery, and throughout their baby’s time breastfeeding. The number of times you see a lactation consultant will vary based on your individual needs, but studies show that meeting with one can have a positive impact on breastfeeding duration. 3