Lactation Professional Articles

  • What is the difference between an IBCLC and an ACLP?

IBCLC stands for International Board Certified Lactation Consultant which is a recognized worldwide credential in the breastfeeding and lactation care field. An IBCLC is someone who has cleared the IBCLC examination which is conducted by the IBCLE (International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners). The exam is held twice a year. 

To be eligible for this exam, one must meet certain education and experience requirements, including completing specific coursework in lactation, breastfeeding, and human anatomy and physiology, as well as completing a minimum number of hours of supervised clinical experience. After meeting these requirements, they must pass the rigorous examination that tests their knowledge and skills in the field of lactation and breastfeeding. Once certified, IBCLCs must adhere to a strict code of ethics and must complete continuing education requirements to maintain their certification. The ethics code and scope of practice are well defined by the governing body which is the IBCLC Commission. (Website: https://ibclc-commission.org/).

An ACLP or Advanced Certified Lactation Professional is a credential offered by Begin Ed India. The ACLP course is the most comprehensive 100-hour Lactation Professional course available in India. While the ACLP is a fully recognized credential, it is also the ideal course for someone who would like to become an IBCLC in the future. This course fulfills the 90-hour coursework and communication skills criteria for the IBCLC Examination. (Read more about the IBCLC Pathways here). An ACLP or IBCLC must recertify his or her credential every five years by showing completion of the required Continued Education hours (CERPS and I-LEH).

Many ACLPs continue to become IBCLCs in their professional journey. All Lactation Professionals work collaboratively with other medical professionals to support and guide mothers and families on their breastfeeding journey. In a referral-based system, IBCLCs help with the most acute lactation challenges, but all Lactation Professionals are necessary for better breastfeeding journeys throughout India and beyond.

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