Lactation support is not created equal. There are varying levels of education and experience among those offering lactation support to breastfeeding mothers. Additionally, not all physicians are trained to help with these issues.
Education and experience vary greatly among the different types of lactation professionals. It is important to note that not all individuals who use this title have a healthcare background. Sometimes, even if they do, they may not possess the necessary education and licensing to provide a diagnosis and treatment plan for lactation conditions.
Can you tell me what IBCLC stands for?
IBCLC stands for “Internationally board-certified lactation consultant.”
Many individuals can receive additional training in lactation consulting. However, few attain the gold standard certification of IBCLC. It is important to note that while there is nothing wrong with seeking lactation support from someone with a different title, IBCLC is the highest level of education in lactation for a non-physician. Someone with a title other than IBCLC may not possess the necessary training and experience to effectively address your lactation issue.
Training Matters
There are three distinct pathways to becoming a certified lactation consultant, each with its own minimum entry requirement. All of them require a minimum of 95 hours of lactation-specific education. This includes five hours dedicated to communication skills, and must be completed within the five years prior to applying for the examination. It is preferred that the five hours of education focused on communication skills are directly related to lactation and breastfeeding care, but it is not a requirement. In addition, a minimum of 1000 hours of lactation-specific clinical practice must be completed in a properly supervised setting within the five years before applying for the examination. Source:IBLCE
In addition to fulfilling these requirements, an IBCLC is required to successfully complete a licensing exam and maintain ongoing education and re-certification periodically.
Other professionals who are trained in lactation consulting include certified lactation counselors (CLC), peer to peer counselors, and in Texas, there is a trained breastfeeding educator program. These professionals have different levels of education.
Not All Physicians are Trained in Breastfeeding
Physicians generally care about their patients and want to do what’s best for them. However, many lack knowledge in breastfeeding and caring for lactating mothers and babies. Pediatricians may receive some training in lactation, but other specialties most often do not. Overall, physician training programs lack adequate education in this area.
Additionally, physicians in private practice or hospital-based medical practices encounter obstacles in providing quality care for lactating mothers and their babies. The healthcare system typically schedules appointments in 15 to 30-minute blocks, leaving doctors with limited time to address multiple issues. However, caring for lactating mothers and babies often demands more time than available during these office visits.
While their intentions are good, pediatricians often recommend formula supplements as a solution for lactation problems. Often, this is a simpler solution than to address the root cause of a newborn’s weight loss and feeding difficulties.
Occasionally You Need a Unicorn
Some physicians have sought additional education in the field of breastfeeding and refer to themselves as breastfeeding medicine specialists. By integrating their medical knowledge with their knowledge of breastfeeding, they are able to provide care for a wider range of complex lactation issues.
As a healthcare professional specializing in breastfeeding medicine, I am knowledgeable in both baby and lactating mother care. I have experience in addressing complex breastfeeding issues and can provide medication as needed for symptom relief. Additionally, in the fall of 2023, I took the breastfeeding medicine board exam and passed. This board certification allows me to see mothers and babies to treat both simple and complex breastfeeding issues.
How can 127 Pediatrics and Dr. Wadley help you?
At 127 Pediatrics, we offer concierge level pediatric and breastfeeding care. If you are near Colleyville, Texas and would like to know more about our in person services, fill out a contact form on our website for a free meet and greet. If you are not close to our practice, but would like breastfeeding support, we offer an array of services. From free resources like this blog or our YouTube channel all the way up to paid resources such as our online breastfeeding overview course. We would be honored to be part of your breastfeeding journey.
© 127 Pediatrics, January 2024
Please note that this article is purely for informational purposes and should not be interpreted as medical advice.
Dr. Andrea Wadley owns and operates 127 Pediatrics, a pediatric and lactation practice in Colleyville, TX. She specializes in pediatrics, breastfeeding medicine and offers house calls only. Additionally, Dr. Wadley is the owner of the 127 Pediatrics Online Breastfeeding Medicine and Education Center. We have many free resources for breastfeeding mothers. Subscribe to our YouTube channel or download a free breastfeeding checklist.
