What will I learn?
Check out the skills and competencies that Breastfeeding Educator Certification can offer you.
Core Educational Components (200 Hours)
I. Lactation Science & Physiology (60 Hours)
- Breast anatomy and physiology
- Hormonal regulation of lactation
- Composition of human milk
- Infant reflexes and suck-swallow-breathe coordination
- Breastfeeding and immune system development
- Growth patterns and weight gain in breastfed infants
- Impact of medications, birth interventions, and maternal health on lactation
II. Practical Breastfeeding Skills (40 Hours)
- Latch and positioning techniques
- Hand expression and pumping
- Addressing common breastfeeding challenges (low supply, oversupply, engorgement, mastitis)
- Supplementation methods (SNS, cup feeding, finger feeding)
- Weaning and transition to solids
- Tandem nursing and extended breastfeeding
- Relactation and induced lactation
III. Counseling & Communication (30 Hours)
- Effective client-centered counseling skills
- Motivational interviewing techniques
- Providing culturally competent care
- Emotional aspects of breastfeeding and postpartum support
- Supporting parents through common concerns and challenges
- Partner and family involvement in breastfeeding
IV. WHO Code & Ethical Considerations (5 Hours)
- WHO International Code of Marketing of Breastmilk Substitutes
- Ethical responsibilities of lactation professionals
- Industry influence on breastfeeding practices
- Implementing evidence-based lactation support
V. Special Circumstances & Advanced Topics (25 Hours)
- Premature and NICU breastfeeding support
- Breastfeeding after breast surgery
- Tongue-tie and other oral restrictions
- Breastfeeding multiples
- Milk banking and donor milk use
- Lactation support for LGBTQ+ families
- Supporting parents with disabilities
VI. Public Health & Advocacy (20 Hours)
- Global breastfeeding initiatives and policies
- Breastfeeding in the workplace and legal rights
- Community lactation support programs
- Social determinants of breastfeeding success
- Role of Breastfeeding Educators in public health
VII. Professional Development & IBCLC Prep (20 Hours)
- Career pathways and business strategies
- Professional ethics and scope of practice
- Preparing for IBCLC exam
- Case study reviews
- Evidence-based practice and continuing education
Extended Learning Opportunities (400+ Hours)
Beyond the core 200 hours, students have access to an extensive 400+ hour program, including:
✔️ 40+ Educational Lectures from lactation professionals, educators, and IBCLCs
✔️ Inclusive Course Materials – culturally competent and up-to-date lactation resources
✔️ Nursing Position Guides & E-Books for in-depth learning
✔️ IBCLC Flashcard Templates to aid in exam preparation
✔️ Continued Access to Supportive Resources for ongoing professional development
This program provides a solid foundation for breastfeeding educators and a stepping stone for those seeking IBCLC certification, ensuring well-rounded, evidence-based lactation knowledge that exceeds industry standards.