The Lactation Specialist (LS) is a consultant trained to focus on the needs and concerns of the breastfeeding mother-baby pair and to prevent, recognize, and solve breastfeeding difficulties. LS services do not replace those of other healthcare workers; instead, the LS is an extender of maternal–child services. During pregnancy, the LS provides anticipatory guidance with the expectant mother and her family, while exploring her concerns and preferences for lactation. In the postpartum, the LS serves a reference and support for the new mother, aiding her in success with her infant feeding goals. The LS can offer suggestions for holistic and natural remedies for minor discomforts, and Mamatoto Village's LS has the added benefit of being able to support mothers with a range of psychosocial factors while delivering culturally empathetic care. LS can work in a community-based setting, in a clinic under the supervision of an IBCLC, or as an independent practitioner.
Training Details
This comprehensive 45-hour course is designed to provide each student with a foundational understanding of the anatomy and physiology of human lactation and lactation management skills in working with the breastfeeding dyad. The course will meet in the classroom for 45-hours of didactic and hands-on skills training.
The in-person training will take place over 2 intensive weekends (Friday-Sunday) 9am-6:30 pm. There is also an online component to the course which consists of resources, discussion questions, and quizzes. During the training, you will receive a resource book, digital resources, and journal articles. There are 4 training modules to include:
There is a 100 question exam to complete the course. You must pass the course with an 80% or higher. You have 9 months from the date of the training to complete all requirements for certifications as a Lactation Specialist (LS).
What is the cost to attend training?
$625
Do you provide mentorship for those wanting to become an IBCLC?
Yes. We have an IBCLC on staff who can provide mentorship. Mamatoto Village can also provide clinical hours towards the IBCLC.
Post-training, mentorship opportunities are available beginning late 2018 for an additional fee. Mentorship extends for up to 6 months.
Training Details
This comprehensive 45-hour course is designed to provide each student with a foundational understanding of the anatomy and physiology of human lactation and lactation management skills in working with the breastfeeding dyad. The course will meet in the classroom for 45-hours of didactic and hands-on skills training.
The in-person training will take place over 2 intensive weekends (Friday-Sunday) 9am-6:30 pm. There is also an online component to the course which consists of resources, discussion questions, and quizzes. During the training, you will receive a resource book, digital resources, and journal articles. There are 4 training modules to include:
- History of Lactation
- Breastfeeding in Color: The Legacy of Black Breastfeeding
- Issues Impacting Breastfeeding Today
- Anatomy and Physiology of Lactation
- Composition of Breastmilk
- Infant Feeding
- Contraindications to Breastfeeding
- Medications and Breastfeeding
- Anticipatory Guidance for the Woman and Her Family
- Getting Breastfeeding Off to a Good Start
- The Impact of Birth Outcome on Lactation
- Conducting an Interview, Consulting and Counseling the lactating mother
- Overcoming Common Challenges in Lactation
- Maternal and Infant Medical Challenges in Lactation
- Herbal Remedies for Lactation
- Extended feeding
- Weaning
- Scope of Practice
- The Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative
There is a 100 question exam to complete the course. You must pass the course with an 80% or higher. You have 9 months from the date of the training to complete all requirements for certifications as a Lactation Specialist (LS).
What is the cost to attend training?
$625
Do you provide mentorship for those wanting to become an IBCLC?
Yes. We have an IBCLC on staff who can provide mentorship. Mamatoto Village can also provide clinical hours towards the IBCLC.
Post-training, mentorship opportunities are available beginning late 2018 for an additional fee. Mentorship extends for up to 6 months.