There are differences in the type of support provided by Leaders and IBCLCs.
This article is adapted from the print publication by La Leche League USA.
LLL Leaders
A La Leche League Leader:
- is a volunteer breastfeeding counselor who has breastfed their own child and supports breastfeeding in their community
- is accredited by La Leche League International and has fulfilled LLLI requirements for Leadership including self-paced training and skills assessment
- may offer a variety of support via in-person meetings, phone, text, email, and social media
- is trained to help with the normal course of breastfeeding from prenatal through weaning
- will refer to health care professional for anything outside their scope or training
IBCLCs
An International Board Certified Lactation Consultant:
- is a health care professional who specializes in the clinical management of breastfeeding
- is certified by the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners
- works in a wide variety of health care settings including hospitals, pediatric offices, public health clinics, and private practice
- is trained in a wide variety of complex breastfeeding situations
- completes required continuing education
- provides a written care plan to the nursing parent
Note:
There are many LLL Leaders who are also IBCLCs.
