What is a Lactation Consultant (LC) ?



Lactation Consultants may have a background in midwifery, breastfeeding counselling, medicine or health visiting. They will have successfully completed a 6 hour written examination at degree level and a substantial amount of breastfeeding counselling work. In order to sit the exam candidates must demonstrate they have studied all aspects of breastfeeding including anatomy and physiology, endocrinology, biochemistry, nutrition, immunology, infectious diseases, pathology, pharmacology, psychology, sociology, anthropology and research and ethics.

Lactation Consultants are experts in breastfeeding and skilled in supporting parents with breastfeeding problems. LCs are registered and regulated by The International Board of Lactation Consultants Examiners. They have to demonstrate that they have kept their knowledge and skills up to date every 5 years and re-sit the exam every 10 years to maintain their qualification.