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Abbreviations

Professional Credentials and Descriptions

• IBCLC - International Board Certified Lactation Consultant. An IBCLC is a health care professional who specializes in the clinical management of breastfeeding. IBCLCs are certified by the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners under the direction of the US National Commission for Certifying Agencies. An IBCLC has had extensive formal lactation education and clinical training, has passed an international certification exam and has continuing education requirements in lactation. May also use term “Registered” (RLC).
• RLC - Registered Lactation Consultant. Registered Lactation Consultants are IBCLCs.

Some breastfeeding specialists carry other credentials such as:

• CBE (Certified Breastfeeding Educator)
• CLC (Certified Lactation Counselor or Certified Lactation Consultant)
• CLE (Certified Lactation Educator)
• CLS (Certified Lactation Specialist), etc.

The above credentials mean that the person has taken additional training in lactation management but is not nationally or internationally certified.

Volunteer Organization Accreditation

• LLLL - La Leche League Leader. An LLLL is an experienced breastfeeding mother, familiar with research and current findings dealing with breastfeeding, who offers practical information and encouragement to nursing mothers through monthly meeting and one-to-one help. An LLLL has completed specific reading and introspection and has finished the extensive written training curriculum and other accreditation requirements established by La Leche League International.

Other Professional Credentials

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