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"Becoming a mother is such a happy time, but it can also be overwhelming. Especially for the first time, mom's just trying to figure it all out, like me. In our community, 73 % of mothers initiate breastfeeding, and only 45% are still exclusively breastfeeding upon discharge from the hospital. By becoming a Certified Lactation Counselor, I have gained the knowledge and skills to help other moms in the community succeed in their breastfeeding journey."

- Haley Feazell, RN, CLC

"How a woman's body grows, births, and nourishes her baby is amazing! I love having the opportunity to support new moms through it all. I'm blessed to witness the beautiful bond between mother and baby at birth. Breastfeeding has many benefits for the mom and gives the baby the best start to life. But sometimes, motherhood can be challenging and feel like a juggling act. Guiding and supporting mothers in their new role is where I come in. I truly have my "dream job" at BHS as a Labor and Delivery Nurse and Certified Lactation Counselor."

- Joanna Gomez, RN, CLC

The Certified Lactation Counselor (CLC) certification identifies a professional in lactation counseling who has demonstrated the necessary skills, knowledge, and attitudes to provide clinical breastfeeding counseling and management support to families thinking about breastfeeding or who have questions or problems during the course of breastfeeding/lactation.

CLCs are dedicated to promoting, protecting, and supporting breastfeeding and human lactation in their work to prevent and solve breastfeeding problems. They understand that breastfeeding works best when it is the cultural norm and when the provider of lactation support and services is culturally competent.

CLCs come from various educational and employment backgrounds, including mothers, peer counselors, educators, nurses, childbirth educators, doulas, nutritionists, dietitians, midwives, physicians, social workers, public health workers, public administrators, and many others. CLCs work in obstetric and pediatric practice settings, hospitals, public health programs, and independent practices.

CLCs work within a counseling model, understanding that breastfeeding decisions are made by the mother, who may have values and goals different from the counselor. CLCs work as part of the health care team, ensuring appropriate referrals and recommendations.

​Research has shown that the education required of CLCs prior to certification is associated with improved breastfeeding outcomes. There are currently over 23000 CLCs in the US.

Lactation counseling services are now available at Beauregard Health System. Call us today at 337.462.7100 to schedule your visit.