For professionals & parents
Don't hesitate to ask your lactation consultant about their base profession and certifications. Here is an overview so you can understand who can truly help you with what.
A completed medical or nursing training is generally recommended (midwife, pediatric/general nurse, physician, alternative practitioner, physiotherapist, etc.).
International Board Certified Lactation Consultant
An internationally protected title with the highest standard. Prerequisite: a medical profession, at least 90 hours of training and 1,000 hours of counseling practice. Recertification every 5 years, the exam retaken every 10 years.
Training Center for Lactation and Breastfeeding
215 hours of training, a practicum, a thesis and final exam. Recertification: 50 hours of training every 5 years in the field of bonding, early childhood development and breastfeeding ("BESt").
European Institute for Breastfeeding and Lactation
Training for the non-clinical field. 40-hour basic seminar + exam + 16-hour practicum. Certificate valid for 3 years, renewable via annual continuing education.
Arbeitsgemeinschaft freie Stillgruppen e.V.
Peer-to-peer volunteer breastfeeding support. Prerequisite: own breastfeeding experience, two training weekends, a written exam. Certificate valid 2 years.
Volunteer peer-to-peer support
Prerequisite: own breastfeeding experience. Training lasts 1–2 years: active participation in a local LLL group, communication courses, continuing-education meetings and correspondence with an LLL trainer.
German Training Institute for Breastfeeding
Training for breastfeeding companions without medical prerequisites. Three weekends concluding with an exam. Certificate valid 2 years.
German Association of Lactation Consultants IBCLC
Since 1990, advocating for the most natural health measure for mother and child: breastfeeding. Promotes a nationwide network of qualified lactation consulting services.
