Lactation Consultants

"Doctors and nurses are required to study human lactation as part of the anatomy and physiology courses taken to obtain their degrees, but not every doctor or nurse is a specialist in the practice of breastfeeding. For this reason, it is very important that breastfed babies are under the care of a breastfeeding-friendly pediatrician who will understand their specific needs and growth patterns. Breastfeeding mothers may need specialized care and help. A lactation consultant, preferably an IBCLC (internationally board certified lactation consultant), can assist and educate women so that they can successfully breastfeed and avoid common problems and mistakes."

- From "Lactation Consultant Q&A: common breastfeeding problems and how an LC can help"

A lactation consultant is a specially-trained and certified professional who helps women learn how to breastfeed, and can also help to avoid and correct issues that can adversely affect breastfeeding. Not all lactation consultants receive the same training and education simply because they possess some level of certification. For this reason, it is recommended that women choose a lactation consultant who possesses the credential title of "IBCLC", or "Internationally Board Certified Lactation Consultant". IBCLC's are the most thoroughly trained LCs available, and are becoming increasingly easier to find for help due to a newly renewed interest in breastfeeding worldwide.

Other Sources:

[http://americas.iblce.org/what-is-an-ibclc "What is an IBCLC?" - IBCLC.Org]

"Find a Lactation Consultant" - ICLA.Org (Directory of IBCLCs all over the world)

[http://www.babycenter.com/404_what-does-a-lactation-consultant-do-and-how-do-i-find-one_8876.bc "What does a lactation consultant do, and how do I find one?" - BabyCenter.com]

"Tips for choosing a lactation consultant" - Parenting-Journals.com