What is an IBCLC lactation consultant?
IBCLC certification is recognized as excellence in breastfeeding support. It requires health training, between 500 and 1000 hours of clinical practice, specific training in human lactation, as well as listening and empathy skills. Lactation consultants adhere to a code of ethics, promoting breastfeeding and informing families of all possible options. This certification is revalidated every 5 years, a guarantee of quality and updating of knowledge.
This certification is not recognized by our health system, it is a new profession dating from the 1980s. This explains why consultations are not reimbursed by social security (but by certain mutual insurance companies this is the case )
An IBCLC lactation consultant is a breastfeeding specialist who has passed international certification valid for 5 years (recertification by training points every 5 years).
To obtain this certification, you need to have:
-a background in health and the knowledge needed to keep abreast of scientific developments
-between 500 and 1000 hours of clinical practice, and
-specific training in human lactation,
- good listening skills and empathy.
Lactation consultants are bound by a code of ethics.
They help to promote breastfeeding and inform families of all the options available, so that they can make an informed choice.
This certification is considered to represent excellence in breastfeeding support.
In France, other qualifications exist, which do not include the same level of requirements in terms of training and clinical practice. There are also charities.
I chose this profession out of passion. I know how important breastfeeding can be for a mother and her child. I adapt my suggestions to each situation.
I chose this certification for the scientific rigour it brings: the information I give is evidence-based, and I regularly update myself on the results of new scientific studies.
