To become a lactation consultant, the most recognized credential is becoming an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC). The typical steps include completing prerequisite health science courses, obtaining lactation-specific education (around 95 hours), and acquiring supervised clinical experience (ranging from 300 to 1000 hours depending on the pathway). Candidates then must pass the IBCLC exam offered twice a year. There are three main pathways to qualify for the IBCLC exam:

1. Healthcare professionals pathway, for those already working in health-related fields, requiring about 1000 clinical hours with breastfeeding clients.
2. Academic lactation programs pathway, requiring completion of accredited lactation education and 300 hours of supervised clinical practice.
3. Mentorship pathway, involving structured mentorship with an IBCLC and 500 hours of supervised clinical practice.

All candidates need to complete 14 health science prerequisite courses (biology, anatomy, psychology, etc.) if not already done, and follow the Code of Professional Conduct for IBCLCs. Depending on previous education and experience, candidates choose the pathway that best fits their background to meet the requirements before sitting for the exam. Programs are offered by universities and organizations such as UC San Diego, MSU Denver, and others, sometimes with additional continuing education courses required. In summary, the pathway includes:

• Educational prerequisites in health sciences
• 95 hours of lactation specific education
• Clinical supervised hours (300 to 1000 based on pathway)
• Passing the IBCLC certification exam

This certification enables work in various healthcare and community settings, supporting breastfeeding mothers and babies professionally and effectively.