Path to Lactation Consultant
Embarking on the journey to become an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) has been more than a career choice for me; it's been profoundly rewarding and fulfilling. In sharing my story, I hope to provide insights, share the challenges, and illuminate the joys that accompany my pursuit of this profession. Whether you're a healthcare professional or an impassioned individual looking to support breastfeeding families, I encourage you to spend time exploring this blog and personal recollections on this journey.
Before diving into the specifics, let me take a moment to reflect on the role of an IBCLC. I've come to realize that being a lactation consultant isn't just about managing breastfeeding; it's about being a recognized expert in the field, someone equipped to provide skilled assistance and guidance to breastfeeding families. This involves not only educating but also advocating for the well-being of both mothers and infants and the total family dynamic.
Background:
When I was pregnant with my daughter I did so much research to understand pregnancy, birth, and parenting. I felt well prepared going into pregnancy and actually having the baby. Once I was on the other side, I realized so much more went into breastfeeding than I imagined. *Cue*, hiring my lactation consultant and the beginning of this journey of becoming an IBCLC via Pathway 3.
To sit for this International Exam you must:
Choose a Pathway (Pathway 1, Pathway 2, or Pathway 3)
Minimum 95 hours of lactation-specific education
Educational Requirements:
My educational background is in health. I majored in Biological Science and had a good chunk of the required science requirements. I kicked off with the commitment to completing the remaining necessary education – 90 hours of lactation education, 5 hours of communication, and all related health and science courses aligned with the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners (IBLCE) requirements. I sought out accredited programs that covered essential topics like the anatomy and physiology of lactation, infant development, and the intricate art of counseling. I used programs such as sophia.org to take my statistics course. Half of the lactation-specific education came from my certified lactation counselor training through Healthy Children’s Project. The other half came from a mixture of webinars and symposiums, Gold being one of my favorites.
Clinical Experience:
Gaining hands-on experience became the heartbeat of my journey. Working with breastfeeding families under the guidance of a qualified mentor, the wonderful Montika, was a transformative period. It allowed me to apply theoretical knowledge in real-life scenarios, fostering not just technical expertise but also honing critical skills in assessment, counseling, and creative problem-solving. Spending at least 500 hours learning hands on, clinical experience was absolutely a blessing!
Exam Preparation:
The pinnacle of my journey was undoubtedly the IBCLC exam. Rigorous and comprehensive, this 175-question test evaluated not just my knowledge but also my ability to apply evidence-based practices in lactation consulting. I approached the exam with a mix of nerves and confidence, knowing that my education and experiences had prepared me for success.
I began by taking the Lactation Education Resources Exam Prep Program.
I finished the preparation by taking the practice exam provided by the IBCLE.
Ethical Considerations and Professionalism:
Understanding the ethical considerations of this profession became paramount. The Code of Professional Conduct for IBCLCs became my compass, guiding me in maintaining the highest standards of professionalism, confidentiality, and respect for cultural diversity. These principles aren't just guidelines; they are the very foundation of trust with the families I support.
Continued Professional Development:
The journey didn't end with certification. I find myself continually immersed in the dynamic field of lactation, attending conferences, workshops, and webinars. Ongoing professional development is not just a checkbox; it's my commitment to staying current, expanding my knowledge, and connecting with fellow professionals in the ever-evolving landscape of lactation care.
Becoming an IBCLC has been my greatest joy of education, experience, and dedication to maternal health thus far. As you navigate through the steps outlined in this guide, remember that each milestone brings you closer to making a significant impact on the lives of breastfeeding families. Embrace the challenges, celebrate the victories, and relish in the fulfillment of being a beacon of support on this beautiful journey.
Remember, your commitment to continuous learning and compassionate care will not only shape your professional identity but also positively influence the breastfeeding experiences of countless families.
May your journey to becoming an IBCLC be as enriching and transformative as mine has been.
Written by: T’Kia Walterscheid
