These professionals can help with breastfeeding:
- International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) – IBCLCs are certified breastfeeding professionals with the highest level of knowledge and skill in breastfeeding support. IBCLCs help with a wide range of breastfeeding concerns. To earn the IBCLC certification, candidates must have a medical or health-related educational background as well as breastfeeding-specific education and clinical experience. They also must pass a rigorous exam. Ask your obstetrician, pediatrician, or midwife for the name of a lactation consultant who can help you. Or, find an IBCLC in your area.
- CLC (Certified Lactation Counselor) or CBE (Certified Breastfeeding Educator) – A breastfeeding counselor or educator teaches about breastfeeding and helps women with basic breastfeeding challenges and questions. These counselors and educators have special breastfeeding training, usually limited to a week-long course.
- Doula (DOO-la) – A doula is professionally trained to give birthing families social support during pregnancy, labor, and birth as well as at home during the first few days or weeks after the baby is born. Doulas that are trained in breastfeeding can help you learn to breastfeed.