looking for lactation educator courses

lamazeteacher · Mar 24, 2009

Right above your OP, there's an ad for a Lactation Consultant course, by Phoenix University, online.

While I doubt that all the information/experience you'll need to be a lactation educator (or is it consultant, you want to be?) would be obtained online, it's a possibility as a start. I obtained my education at an Adult School in Salinas, CA.

Since I'd been assisting moms to breastfeed and teaching childbirth education (including lactation) for many years, the official education was like a review, and I met others who are in the same field.

Unfortunately, those women who don't think they need (have the time for) childbirth education, think similarly about infant health/breastfeeding preparation. They're the ones who freak on the third post partum day, as the engorgement makes their breasts more painful, and the baby can't latch on as easily. Usually they find out about La Leche League from other moms, and get help from the members of that organization.

That's also the time post partum "blues"/depression settles in, their partner/husband goes back to work, and no one's there to hold their hands (or at least the baby's hands, as they literally fight the breast). La Leche League can usually get someone to go to their home, if they have ask.

Mom/BabyLisa · Mar 24, 2009

Thanks. I have checked into the online courses and would rather not. I am a hands on learner:) I also teach Childbirth Education classes and work as a staff nurse on the Maternity Department. I agree with all your statements:) I see both worlds. The ones that prepare for Birth vs. those that do not.

I am really looking for a course in WI. The hospital will pay for travel expenses but I personally would rather not be away from home for a week:)

Thanks for your help!

nkochrn, RN · Mar 25, 2009

This is the program that I attended to be a certified breastfeeding educator. I see she has programs in several different locations, including Iowa, Kansas, and Missouri, but don't don't how far she goes. There is a link to email her.

lamazeteacher · Mar 25, 2009

You might also contact your local La Leche League to see if anyone knows of a course for professionals. While their members see themselves as support persons, I don't think they're likely to defend their role as breastfeeding educators.

Mom/BabyLisa · Mar 25, 2009

Marrissasmommy- What program are you referring to? I don't see a link

thanks!