What Does a Lactation Nurse Do?
A lactation nurse—also known as a breastfeeding consultant or lactation specialist—is a trained medical professional who supports new mothers with breastfeeding. These nurses help with latching, milk production, infant weight gain, and provide emotional and educational support to families during postpartum.
Why Choose a Career in Lactation Nursing?
If you’re passionate about helping mothers and babies thrive, this profession offers a fulfilling way to make a difference. With rising awareness of breastfeeding’s health benefits, the demand for qualified lactation consultants is growing across hospitals, clinics, and private practices.
Step 1: Start by Becoming a Registered Nurse (RN)
The first step in becoming a lactation nurse is earning your RN license. You can pursue an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) through an accredited nursing school. After graduation, you must pass the NCLEX-RN exam to become licensed.
Step 2: Gain Experience in Maternal or Pediatric Units
Before specializing, it’s recommended to work in areas like labor and delivery, postpartum care, or pediatric nursing. Most employers look for at least 1–2 years of clinical experience with mothers and infants before moving into lactation roles.
Step 3: Complete Lactation Education Courses
To focus on breastfeeding support, you’ll need specific lactation education. Accredited programs from sources like the Healthy Children Project or Lactation Education Resources offer comprehensive training in breastfeeding techniques, counseling, and infant nutrition.
Step 4: Become IBCLC Certified
Earning the IBCLC (International Board Certified Lactation Consultant) credential is the gold standard. Managed by the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners (IBLCE), this certification requires:
- At least 90 hours of lactation-specific education
- Between 300 and 1,000 clinical hours (depending on your path)
- Passing the IBCLC certification exam
This credential validates your expertise and opens up more job opportunities.
Where Do Lactation Nurses Work?
Lactation nurses are employed in various healthcare and community settings, including:
- Hospitals and birthing centers
- Pediatric and OB/GYN clinics
- Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) programs
- Private lactation consulting practices
- Telehealth and home visit services
Many nurses even launch their own consulting businesses after certification.
Key Skills Every Lactation Nurse Needs
To succeed in this career, you’ll need both clinical and soft skills such as:
- Compassionate communication and empathy
- Knowledge of infant feeding and development
- Problem-solving under pressure
- Cultural sensitivity and education techniques
- Record-keeping and patient documentation
How Much Can You Earn?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, registered nurses earn an average salary of $81,220 per year. Certified lactation consultants may earn more, particularly in private practice or specialized hospitals. Your salary may vary based on your location, experience, and credentials.
Can You Become a Lactation Consultant Without Being a Nurse?
Yes, non-nurses can become Certified Lactation Counselors (CLC) or apply for IBCLC via alternate pathways. However, RNs with lactation credentials often have more clinical authority and wider job prospects.
Becoming a lactation nurse is a fulfilling way to support mothers and newborns during one of life’s most important transitions. If you’re committed to maternal-child health, follow the steps—nursing education, clinical experience, lactation coursework, and IBCLC certification—to enter this rewarding field. Your expertise will empower families and promote healthier futures for generations.