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Breastfeeding is a beautiful but sometimes challenging journey. Many new parents find invaluable support through the NHS—midwives, health visitors, and peer groups who are often incredibly knowledgeable and dedicated to helping families navigate feeding their babies. That said, some parents may find that they need more specialist help or prefer support that fits more conveniently around their life. This is where a private IBCLC can really complement NHS care.

What Is an IBCLC?

An IBCLC, or International Board Certified Lactation Consultant, is a healthcare professional who has completed rigorous, specialist training in breastfeeding and lactation. Unlike many healthcare roles where breastfeeding knowledge is part of a broader job, becoming an IBCLC requires dedicated education and clinical experience solely focused on supporting breastfeeding families.

To become an IBCLC, candidates must meet strict eligibility criteria, which usually include a combination of healthcare-related qualifications and at least 1,000 hours of supervised clinical lactation experience. After this, they must pass a comprehensive international exam that tests their knowledge in areas like anatomy and physiology, infant feeding behaviours, counselling skills, and management of common and complex breastfeeding issues. IBCLCs also have to maintain their certification through continuing education, ensuring they stay up to date with the latest research and best practices.

The NHS provides a vital service with many skilled professionals offering breastfeeding advice as part of their wider roles. However, because their training covers many aspects of postnatal and child health, breastfeeding support is just one part of what they do.

IBCLCs focus entirely on lactation and infant feeding, meaning they often have more time and specialised knowledge to devote to your unique situation. They can provide detailed, personalised support that addresses specific challenges such as latch difficulties, painful feeding, low or oversupply of milk, tongue-tie, and feeding babies with special medical needs.

One of the biggest benefits of choosing a private IBCLC is the convenience. Rather than travelling to clinics or hospitals—sometimes with a newborn in tow—IBCLCs often offer in-home visits, providing support where you feel most comfortable. This personalised approach means you can get expert help tailored exactly to you and your baby’s needs, in your own time and space, which can be especially reassuring in those early weeks.

• If your baby struggles with feeding or latch issues
   
• If you’re experiencing pain, low milk supply, or other concerns that need specialised assessment
   
• If your baby has a condition like tongue-tie or medical complexities
   
• If you feel you need more time or detailed help than the standard NHS appointments allow
   
• If you want ongoing support beyond the first few weeks
   
• If you prefer flexible, convenient, in-home care
   

The NHS provides essential breastfeeding support, with many wonderful, caring professionals. At the same time, private IBCLCs bring a deep level of specialised expertise, rigorous training, and the convenience of personalised, home-based care. Together, both forms of support can help you and your baby thrive on your breastfeeding journey.

Join our breastfeeding support group to connect with other mothers, share your experiences, and receive support and guidance from Amanda. Contact me for further information.

Coming soon.

Have questions or need assistance? Contact us to speak with a lactation consultant or to schedule a consultation. We are here to support you on your breastfeeding journey.