Who is eligible to take the IBLCE exam for lactation consultant certification?
All candidates need experience in providing care to breastfeeding families and coursework in human lactation and breastfeeding. IBLCE uses various criteria to determine who is eligible and has defined three pathways by which candidates may qualify for the exam. The majority of IBCLCs are licensed health care professionals such as nurses, midwives, dieticians and physicians. A few come from backgrounds as speech therapists, physical or occupational therapists, chiropractors, social workers and psychologists. Experienced mother-to-mother breastfeeding support group leaders with organizations such as La Leche League and Australian Breastfeeding Association make up the next largest group of candidates.
