1. International Lactation Consultant Association (ILCA)
The ILCA is the leading professional association for lactation consultants worldwide. They provide a searchable directory of certified lactation consultants (IBCLCs) in your area. The ILCA also offers continuing education, networking opportunities, and resources for both families and healthcare providers.
2. La Leche League International (LLLI)
La Leche League is a well-known organization that offers peer support and resources for breastfeeding mothers. They have a network of trained volunteers and lactation consultants who provide support through local groups and their online forum. LLLI also has valuable educational resources on breastfeeding and lactation.
Link: La Leche League
3. United States Lactation Consultant Association (USLCA)
The USLCA offers resources for finding certified lactation consultants, including a directory of IBCLCs in the U.S. They also provide educational materials, conferences, and certifications for aspiring lactation consultants.
4. Breastfeeding Support: Hospital and Birth Center Lactation Services
Many hospitals and birth centers offer lactation consultant services either in-person or virtually. These professionals can assist with prenatal counseling, postpartum breastfeeding support, and in-hospital consultations after delivery. Check with your hospital or birth center for lactation services they provide.
Find services near you: Find a hospital with lactation support
5. The Academy of Lactation Policy and Practice (ALPP)
The ALPP focuses on improving public health through breastfeeding advocacy and support. They offer a directory of lactation consultants and provide resources for professionals in the field, as well as those seeking to hire a lactation consultant.
Link: ALPP Directory
6. International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners (IBLCE)
IBLCE is the organization that certifies lactation consultants worldwide. Their website offers a wealth of information for individuals seeking to become lactation consultants and provides a certification directory for those looking to hire certified professionals.
Link: IBLCE Directory
7. Consultation Services for Lactation Support (in-person and virtual)
Many lactation consultants offer private consultations in-person or virtually. These one-on-one sessions can help with personalized breastfeeding guidance and troubleshooting common issues like latch problems, low milk supply, and breastfeeding pain.
8. The Breastfeeding Center of Greater Washington
This center offers comprehensive lactation consulting services in the Washington D.C. area, with a team of IBCLCs available for in-person and virtual consultations. They provide prenatal education, postpartum support, and resources for dealing with specific lactation challenges.
9. Medela Lactation Consultant Services
Medela, a well-known manufacturer of breastfeeding products, offers online lactation support and resources. Their website features a lactation consultant directory, educational videos, and articles to support mothers through the breastfeeding process.
Link: Medela Lactation Support
10. Local WIC Offices
The Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program offers breastfeeding support through their network of lactation consultants and counselors. WIC provides breastfeeding education, resources, and personal support to ensure mothers have access to quality care during their breastfeeding journey.
Link: WIC Breastfeeding Support
11. Breastfeeding Medicine
Breastfeeding Medicine is a journal that provides research, clinical guidelines, and evidence-based practices for lactation consultants and healthcare professionals. This resource is valuable for anyone interested in the medical and scientific aspects of lactation and breastfeeding.
12. International Doula Institute (IDI)
The IDI offers lactation education courses for doulas and other childbirth professionals, with a focus on breastfeeding support. Their certification programs provide valuable training for those interested in becoming lactation consultants or supporting breastfeeding mothers.
Whether you're seeking help from a certified lactation consultant or looking to become one yourself, these resources offer valuable support for families navigating the breastfeeding journey. Finding the right lactation consultant can make a significant difference in your breastfeeding success, and the resources listed above can guide you toward the help you need.
Resources for Finding and Learning from Lactation Consultants
Lactation consultants are trained professionals who support breastfeeding mothers by providing expert guidance on breastfeeding techniques, overcoming challenges, and ensuring both mother and baby are thriving. Whether you're looking for a lactation consultant to work with directly or are seeking training resources, here’s a list of trusted resources to help you along your breastfeeding journey.
