How do I become a Lactation Counselor?

[Nurse Beth, MSN]

Hello Nurse Beth!

Is there a college in the US that offers a BSN in breastfeeding or lactation counseling? I thought I found one via an internet search. However, I cannot duplicate my results. I am a diploma RN. I am considering obtaining my BSN and a new career avenue. However, my dollars are limited.

Thank you!

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Dear Interested in Lactation Counseling,

There is a certification for lactation counseling called the Certified Lactation Counselor (CLC). Many hospitals are hiring CLCs to support the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative which promotes breastfeeding.

Applicants must take a course, offered by Healthy Children, followed by an exam. The course is open to RNs and non-RNs. The American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) recognizes the certification course provided by Healthy Children as an accredited nursing skills competency course.

There is also the International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) credential, which is more rigorous and the gold standard. You can find out more about the eligibility criteria at the International Board Certified Lactation Examiners website. Board certification is open to RNs and non-RNs who meet the requisite educational courses and clinical hours.

So in answer to your question- no, there is not a college which offers a BSN in breastfeeding or lactation counseling. There are organizations that offer certificates and credentials.

Obtaining your BSN is still an excellent idea for you, as your BSN is a college degree in (general) nursing that prepares you for multiple career opportunities. It's an investment in yourself.

You can always obtain a lactation certificate on top of your BSN.

Best wishes,

Nurse Beth

[bnlgoodrichRN]

Actually, I think Drexel Univeristy offers something that may interest you. Their program contains classes and clinicals that satisfy the IBCLE requirements to sit for IBCLC certification.