What is the difference between an IBCLC and a lactation counsellor?

An IBCLC (International Board Certified Lactation Consultant) is credentialed by the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners (IBLCE). Candidates complete health-science education, at least 95 hours of lactation-specific education, and between 300 and 1,000 hours of lactation-specific clinical practice depending on the eligibility pathway, then pass the IBLCE board exam — making it the highest clinical certification in lactation care. IBCLCs are trained to manage complex breastfeeding problems including tongue tie assessment, low milk supply investigation, mastitis, and infant weight-gain concerns.

A lactation counsellor or educator, such as a Certified Lactation Counselor, typically requires around 45 hours of training with no mandated supervised clinical hours, and is trained for foundational breastfeeding support and education rather than complex clinical management.

For straightforward breastfeeding education and positioning basics, a lactation counsellor is often sufficient. For persistent pain, suspected tongue tie, weight-gain concerns, mastitis, or combined feeding-and-physical-development issues, an IBCLC is recommended — ideally one with additional relevant clinical training such as a physiotherapy or feeding therapy background.