An International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) is the highest level of credentialing for lactation care. In order to be awarded this distinction, one must fulfill all the requirements needed to sit for the exam and pass. As of 2023, there are 35,707 IBCLCs worldwide and only 19,218 in the United States.

Lactation Consultants work with all types of families and feeding options which may include breastfeeding/chestfeeding, bottle feeding, other feeding options and/or weaning needs.

A lactation consultant can help you with: 

• Breastfeeding goals
• Prenatal education
• Proper latch and positioning
• Milk supply
• Monitoring weight gain and milk intake
• Gassy/fussy babies
• Supplementation plans
• Oral Assessments
• Pumping and flange fittings
• Feeding preemies and/or multiples
• Engorgement
• Nipple pain/damage
• Relactation
• Specialist Referrals
• Maternal well being. 

This list is not exclusive but a sample of the most common needs.

Yes, research shows prenatal breastfeeding education increases the likelihood of successful breastfeeding*, therefore, it is recommended to see a lactation consultant during your pregnancy. However, it is never too late and is very helpful even after your baby is born. 

*Source-PubMed