What is an IBCLC and why consider a private consultation?

In an ideal world, you would have a supportive community—a ‘village’—surrounding you. Women would stand by your side, elders would share their wisdom, and generations of experience would be passed down to help shape and guide your breastfeeding journey.

You would never feel isolated; instead, you would be nurtured, encouraged, and uplifted throughout this important time.

Alternatively, your hospital would offer timely and expert support at the very first sign of any difficulties. You would begin parenthood equipped with the necessary skills to nourish your baby, and you would feel prepared, with honest and realistic expectations for life with a newborn. You would feel empowered to follow your instincts and go with the flow.

In reality, we are often far from home or there is a lack of breastfeeding knowledge in our family and social circles. Some families may also feel let-down by the healthcare system.

Or, breastfeeding has been mismanaged (triple feeding for months is an unfortunate example!) and you have ended up on a path that feels emotionally and physically unsustainable.

Why an IBCLC Lactation Consultant Can Make a Difference

A visit from an IBCLC Lactation Consultant can truly be transformative for families experiencing breastfeeding challenges. An IBCLC, or International Board Certified Lactation Consultant, is a highly qualified healthcare professional who has achieved international certification after extensive training and assessment.

What is an IBCLC?

The International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners awards the IBCLC credential to individuals who have completed at least 1,000 supervised hours supporting parents with breastfeeding and lactation. In addition, candidates must gain 100+ hours of lactation specific education and successfully pass a demanding four-hour, degree-level examination. Typically, IBCLCs come from backgrounds in midwifery, breastfeeding counselling, medicine, or health visiting.

Comprehensive Expertise

The rigorous IBCLC examination covers a broad range of subjects related to lactation and infant feeding, including:

• Anatomy and Physiology
• Endocrinology
• Biochemistry
• Nutrition
• Immunology
• Infectious Diseases
• Pathology
• Pharmacology
• Psychology
• Sociology
• Anthropology
• Drugs in Breastmilk
• Allergies and Breastfeeding
• Research
• Ethics

The IBCLC Difference

IBCLCs are recognised experts in breastfeeding, offering skilled support to parents facing both common and complex feeding problems. Unfortunately, some individuals use titles such as ‘Breastfeeding Consultant’ or ‘Babyfeeding Specialist’ without holding valid credentials or possessing the necessary experience to safely and effectively support families. IBCLCs, by contrast, are equipped with the most comprehensive, evidence-based, and current knowledge in the field.

It is an investment to have a consultation with a lactation consultant. The cost of a consultation is around 12% of the cost of using formula (estimated at around £1,000 for the first year)