Publications

This IBCLC^® impact document can be downloaded and used in advocacy efforts with legislators, policy makers, hospitals, insurers, employers, healthcare systems, policies and by authors and researchers. It is intended to illustrate the importance and efficacy of the lactation consulting profession and the credential that represents the gold standard in clinical lactation care.

In its continuous efforts advocating for the IBCLC^®, NLCA has issued this position paper on licensure. NLCA considers licensure of the International Board Certified Lactation Consultant integral to the provision of clinical lactation care to childbearing families. Licensure of qualified IBCLCs^® facilitates clinical lactation care that is safe, affordable, risk appropriate, and equitable. The position paper explores the need for licensure, the benefits, the challenges, and includes 27 references. Advocates can use this document in their work advancing the IBCLC^® profession, in securing reimbursement for clinical lactation care services, in efforts to improve families’ access to clinical lactation care, and to enhance access to the profession.

Inspiring Professional Growth and Advancing Advocacy
for the International Board Certified Lactation Consultant

Lactation Consultant Advocacy in Action:
Making an Impact National Lactation Consultant Alliance

NLCA is pleased to introduce the first in a series of Knowledge Briefs. This Knowledge brief clarifies the various lactation personnel in the lactation field. The lactation field is replete with a bewildering array of personnel who fulfill various supportive or clinical roles, but their titles can be confusing to parents, policy makers, legislators, insurers, employers, hospitals, and the healthcare system. This document offers clarity of lactation personnel and is suitable for use in IBCLC^® advocacy efforts.

NLCA is pleased to introduce the next in its series of Knowledge Briefs. This Knowledge Brief highlights the impact of the Georgia Lactation Consultant Practice Act, passed in 2016. The Act established the International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC®) as a licensed profession in Georgia, aligning it with the standard practice of licensing clinical healthcare providers across the U.S. A general summary of the lawsuit and its outcome is provided in this document, suitable for use in IBCLC® advocacy efforts.

The Surgeon General and U.S. Women’s Preventive Services Initiative recognize International Board Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLCs®) as the only healthcare professionals certified in clinical lactation care. With nearly 20,000 IBCLCs in the U.S., their specialized training, including clinical hours and board certification, distinguishes them from other lactation personnel. IBCLCs improve breastfeeding outcomes, enhance maternal-infant health, and reduce healthcare costs—saving $2.33 million in Medicaid in one state alone. Their presence in NICUs is linked to reduced rates of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) and improved infant health. These findings highlight the critical need for IBCLCs in healthcare systems and policy planning.

This Knowledge Brief highlights the distinction between breastfeeding support and clinical lactation care, emphasizing the specialized role of International Board Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLCs®) in addressing complex lactation challenges. While breastfeeding education and basic support are provided by counselors, educators, and other personnel, IBCLCs® deliver in-depth clinical assessments and care, integrating medical history, physical evaluations, feeding observations, and tailored interventions. Their expertise addresses intricate issues such as preterm births, infant anomalies, and maternal health conditions. Prenatal and postpartum assessments, personalized care plans, and follow-ups ensure comprehensive support for families facing breastfeeding challenges.