Meet the experts of breastfeeding

International Board Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLCs) are the unmatched feeding specialists that you absolutely need on your journey.
IBCLCs are essentially the PhDs of breastfeeding
They’re the most comprehensively certified and trained lactation experts in the field — just take a look at these credentials.
2-5 years
of dedicated academic & clinical preparation
90+ hours
of lactation-specific education
14 courses
in health-sciences disciplines
300+ hours
of hands-on clinical experience
Every 5 years
IBCLCs must recertify
Some experts know babies, others know moms — but IBCLCs are experts in both.

IBCLCs understand breastfeeding as an interconnected relationship between you and your baby, where your challenges impact them, and their challenges impact you. IBCLCs are uniquely trained to support both of you on the journey, ensuring each of your needs are met throughout.
IBCLCs are ready to help, no matter what challenges may come your way.
As the gold standard in lactation care, they bring expert, science-backed support to each milestone.
And no matter where you’re at on your journey, they’ll be there.
Spoiler: Your breastfeeding journey doesn’t start at the hospital, and it doesn’t end when you leave. IBCLCs guide you at every step — from prepping before baby arrives to first latch, pumping, weaning, and beyond.


Starting strong
Parents who see an IBCLC before birth are twice as likely to reach their breastfeeding goals. This is your chance to build trust, get answers, and create a personalized plan that fits you.


Navigating the journey
As breastfeeding becomes part of your routine, challenges with milk supply, cluster feeding, and pumping may arise — but your IBCLC provides personalized guidance to help you navigate it all.


Transitioning to what’s next
Whether you’re returning to work, introducing solids, or weaning, IBCLCs offer science-backed strategies to ensure you and your baby are healthy and cared for in every new phase.
Learn all about IBCLCs — from the experts, themselves.
What IBCLCs Do
Leah Tribus
BSN, RN, IBCLC
Training & Expertise
Chrisie Rosenthal
BS, IBCLC, PMH-C
Care for Mom & Baby
Francie Webb
IBCLC
Support for the Journey
Dr. Insiyah Gomberawalla
MD, FAAP, NABBLM-C, IBCLC
Frequently asked questions
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International Board Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLCs) hold the highest level of certification possible among lactation specialists. An IBCLC must log hundreds of clinical hours, pass a rigorous exam administered through the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners (IBLCE), and complete around 75 hours of continuous education each year to keep their certifications.
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In most cases, no, you do not need a referral from your doctor to see an IBCLC. However, insurance coverage requirements vary. Some health plans may require a referral or pre-authorization for reimbursement. Check your coverage here and we’ll let you know what’s needed to get you started.
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No matter where you’re at on the journey your IBCLC can support you — there’s no wrong time to start. If you’re pregnant, you can even get help before you give birth. While breastfeeding classes offer general information to help you prepare, a one-on-one prenatal consultation with an IBCLC is all about you. Your IBCLC tailors their guidance to your body, your goals, and your questions — such as tips to increase breast milk before baby is born and how to choose the right pump, covered by insurance — so you’re prepared before your newborn demands your full attention.
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We believe expert lactation support is essential for navigating the breastfeeding journey, which is why we’ve worked hard to ensure that many insurance plans cover IBCLC visits through TLN. We check your coverage and handle the details — so you don’t have to. You can find out if your insurance covers lactation consultations through TLN by entering your information here. If you’ve submitted the registration form you will be able to find out your status by logging into your myTLN portal at mytln.care. We will notify you of any restrictions upfront after you submit your information.
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Each visit is unique and based on a parent and child’s needs at that time. An IBCLC will provide individualized care for you and your baby and may cover topics such as:
- Ways to increase milk supply while pumping,
- How to treat clogged milk ducts,
- Learning to pump,
- Preparing for your return to work,
- And/or problem-solving for any breastfeeding concerns you may have.
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Request a consultation here to find breastfeeding support near you. Once coverage is verified, we’ll pair you with an IBCLC in your area! It’s that simple.
Expert resources at your fingertips
Find comprehensive, IBCLC-backed advice in our resource library
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Lactation consultant vs IBCLC vs CBS: Understanding the differences
Breastfeeding support isn’t one-size-fits-all, and the credentials behind a lactation professional’s name…
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The guide to IBCLCs: Who they are, how they serve, and so much more
Breastfeeding is natural, but let’s be real — it’s not always easy….
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IBCLC certification: Everything you need to know
International Board Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLC) are the gold standard in lactation…