Happy IBCLC Appreciation Day!

Did you know that IBCLCs (International Board Certified Lactation Consultants) are the gold standard in breastfeeding care? Through my own breastfeeding experiences and in my work, I see how important IBCLCs are in helping both mums and babies with breastfeeding. I also see the impact that can have on their motherhood journey and mum’s and baby’s health. Today, on IBCLC Appreciation Day, I want to talk about how amazing these professionals are for mums and babies. In this post, I’ll explain why IBCLCs are important, why breastfeeding support matters, and how you can show your support and celebrate with us.

My Breastfeeding Journey: How IBCLCs Made a Difference

My first breastfeeding journey was hard. I really wanted to breastfeed my baby because I knew it was the best thing for him. But when he was born, it didn’t happen easily like I thought it would. Luca couldn’t latch properly and after a few days, breastfeeding became painful, and Luca wasn’t gaining enough weight. I felt like I was failing. My midwife sent me to an IBCLC (the amazing Helen Green ❤️ ), who found that Luca had a tongue tie. We got that fixed, but my milk supply was low, and I had to use formula too. I felt so upset and guilty that I couldn’t breastfeed the way I’d hoped. But with the support of my mum, my midwife, and Helen, I eventually did reach my breastfeeding goal of 2 years!

This whole experience made me want to help other mums avoid what I went through and help them through breastfeeding hurdles so they could reach their goals too. I trained as a volunteer breastfeeding counsellor and, with my second baby, felt much more confident and ready. I still had some problems (Fletcher had a tongue tie too!) but another amazing IBCLC, Tamika Newman, helped me through again. Knowing about lactation consultants made all the difference for me in both my breastfeeding journeys and I’ll be forever grateful for the help, support and encouragement I got from them.

And that’s why I want to spread the word about IBCLC Appreciation Day. The more women who know this support is out there for them, the more we can help them have happy breastfeeding journeys that go on for as long they choose! These are huge and important steps towards improving the physical and mental health of both mums and babies!

What Do IBCLCs Do?

IBCLCs are top experts in helping with breastfeeding. We go through A LOT of training (over 1000 hours!) to get IBCLC certification and keep our knowledge up to date. We work all over the world to make sure everyone gets fair health care, teach families about breastfeeding, and support policies that help breastfeeding families.

Breastfeeding can be really tough, especially in the first days and weeks after your baby is born. IBCLCs are here to help with these challenges. We can teach you how to hold your baby for feeds, help you build a good milk supply, answer your questions, and give you support and encouragement. Having an IBCLC can help you feel more confident and comfortable with breastfeeding, which is so important for a successful experience.

How Can You Benefit from IBCLC Support?

Here are four tips to help you make the most of IBCLC support (and 4 reasons to celebrate your IBCLC!) :

1. Learn About Breastfeeding

Take some time to learn about breastfeeding from an IBCLC before your baby is born. We can give you helpful information and tips to help you get ready. Knowing what to expect and how to deal with common problems can really help you with breastfeeding. If your baby’s already here, it’s not too late! Learning now can make a huge difference to how breastfeeding goes for you for the rest of your journey.

2. Ask Questions

Don’t be afraid to ask us any questions you have! If you’re not sure how to get a good latch, how to hold your baby properly for feeds, or if you’re worried about your milk supply, your IBCLC is there to help. There are no silly questions. Your IBCLC can give you answers and advice that are just right for your individual situation.

3. Stay Connected

Keep in touch with us, even after the first few weeks. As your baby grows, things with breastfeeding can change. For example, you might need help when you go back to work, when you start giving your baby solids, or when you’re ready to stop breastfeeding. Regular check-ins can help you with these changes and keep you on track and makes sure you get the support you need.

4. Talk to your IBCLC if you’re still having any problems

If something isn’t working or you’re feeling stressed, let them know. We can help you figure out what’s wrong and find solutions that work for you. Being honest about your struggles helps us give you the best support.

How You Can Celebrate and Show Support

Spread the word! 📢

Let other mums know what IBCLC’s do and how they helped you. So many mums don’t know lactation consultants exist. Empower them with the info so that they can get help when they need it. I’m so grateful for all the clients I’ve had who felt empowered and supported enough to share my services with a sister or friend. I’m here for you, and I’m so thankful when you’re here for me too 🥰❤️

Share on Social Media

Post about why IBCLCs are important to you using the hashtag #ThanksIBCLCs you’re your IBCLC too! It will mean so much to them to hear your wins!). Here are some prompts to get you started:

• An IBCLC who inspires me is…
• I’m proud to celebrate IBCLCs today and every day because…
• You might not know this about IBCLCs but…

Make a Donation

Think about donating to the MILCC Scholarship (Monetary Investment for Lactation Consultant Certification) in honour of your favourite IBCLC. This scholarship helps people around the world studying to become IBCLCs, especially those who work with families who don’t have easy access to IBCLC services. You’ll be playing a part in supporting fair breastfeeding care for everyone.

Celebrate IBCLC Appreciation Day: Share Your Story and Spread the Love!

Today, on IBCLC Appreciation Day, we celebrate the incredible support IBCLCs provide to mums and babies. From helping with breastfeeding challenges to offering advice and encouragement, IBCLCs play a huge role in making breastfeeding a positive experience. I’ve seen firsthand how their help can make a big difference, and I want to spread the word about their amazing work.

Please help me spread the word! Post your breastfeeding story and how an IBCLC helped you on Instagram. Don’t forget to tag your IBCLC and tag me (@arlie_ibclc) so I can share your amazing story and help spread the appreciation for IBCLC’s everywhere!

Happy IBCLC Appreciation Day! 🥳🤱❤️