CBC (PCE) - Breastfeeding Counselor Certification

The Breastfeeding Counselor Certification is designed for professionals who wish to specialize in breastfeeding support and counseling. This certification validates a counselor’s knowledge and skills in lactation support, breastfeeding problem-solving, and communication techniques to assist mothers and infants during the breastfeeding journey. Certification is obtained via organizations such as the Academy of Lactation Policy and Practice (ALPP), Prepared Childbirth Educators (PCE) or La Leche League International.

Completion Time: 2 hours

Eligibility and Certification Requirements

Background in a health-related field or significant experience in breastfeeding support.

Completion of a breastfeeding counselor training program, which usually includes education in lactation physiology, breastfeeding management, counseling skills, and problem-solving breastfeeding challenges.

Some organizations require documented practical experience in providing breastfeeding support.

Passing a certification examination, if required by the certifying organization.

Cost

If you have taken Prepared Childbirth Educators’ prep course within the past three years, you are eligible for the off-site examination discounted rate of $150. However, you can only register for this rate after completing the two-day prep course or independent study course - it is not possible to register for both the prep course and the discounted exam rate at the same time.

If you are taking the exam without having taken the PCE prep course or if you took the PCE prep course more than three years ago, you will be charged $450. Please note that you must meet the experience requirement before taking the examination.

Exam Format

This computer-based exam is given nationwide at Scantron Testing Centers. PCE also offers an option to take the examination with a qualified local proctor.

The examination typically includes 75 - 100 multiple-choice questions covering lactation support, breastfeeding techniques, problem-solving common breastfeeding issues, and counseling skills.

Certification Process

Complete any required training in breastfeeding counseling.

Apply for the Breastfeeding Counselor Certification through a recognized certifying body.

Meet the eligibility criteria, including education and experience requirements.

Passing the certification exam depends on answering the minimum required questions correctly. Candidates are evaluated against an objective standard, not against each other.

It typically takes around thirty business days to receive the results from proctored examinations.

Breastfeeding Counselor certification generally requires renewal every 3 years.

Renewal often involves completing continuing education credits in lactation and breastfeeding support and paying a recertification fee.

Continuing education for Breastfeeding Counselors may include updates on lactation research, new breastfeeding support techniques, and communication skills in lactation counseling.

For specific information regarding Breastfeeding Counselor Certification, including eligibility criteria, examination details, approved educational programs, and renewal processes, it is recommended to consult directly with professional organizations such as the Academy of Lactation Policy and Practice (ALPP) or La Leche League International. These organizations offer comprehensive resources and standards for individuals seeking to specialize in breastfeeding counseling and support.

Career Opportunities

Breastfeeding Counselors work in various settings including hospitals, birthing centers, public health clinics, and lactation consulting practices.

They support and educate breastfeeding mothers, offer solutions to breastfeeding challenges, and collaborate with healthcare providers to promote breastfeeding.

Other related certifications include:

• ALPP Certified Lactation Counselor (CLC)

• ALPP Advanced Nurse Lactation Consultant (ANLC)

• ALPP Advanced Lactation Consultant (ALC)

• International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC)

• CAPPA Certified Lactation Educator (CLE)