Dear Siobhan, Becoming an LC in US is fairly extensive and expensive.  I'm
not sure what is involved in South Africa.  There are members from S.Af.
on Lactnet.

The group   that confers LC world wide is: IBLCE, the International Board
of Lactation Consultant Examiners, who can give you details on becoming an
LC.  <[log in to unmask]>  They can also put you in touch with whoever
oversees your geographic area.  Becoming an LLLL is an excellent first
step, a way to build up practice hours for the exam.  The LLL reading
materials and books are another great place to start.  I would liken
becoming a leader as similar to getting your Associates degree (2 yr
college in US) so I know you have tons of reading to  do.  An LC would be
similar to studying for a BA (4 yr college degree).  Being a nurse has
several advantages when it comes to the anatomy & physiology, physical
illnesses of moms and babies,  medications in BF etc.  The LLL Peer
Counselor program may be a good way for you to start too.

Whether you realize it or not, you have a long road of work and study ahead
of you.  Being an LC isn't just a nice/fun thing to do.  I don't want to
discourage you.  But would rather you have a real good idea of what is
involved.  Your limited finances and 2 year old will have major impact on
what you can and can't accomplish.

I need to  communicate with your leaders to find out some details re:
leadership in S. Af.  Can you put me in touch?  Also have you tried
communicating with LLLInt. via computer?  Their web page at
<lalecheleague.org> is a fabulous resource.

The internet is a valuable tool because there are courses that can be taken
long distance. The world is smaller now because of the internet, but the
amount of work to become an LC or LLLL hasn't changed.  In fact as more and
more research becomes available I think the work to become an LLLL or LC
has increased.

I personally think  you have a lot of  research to do about what all is
involved and what is the best direction for you to  take.  Best wishes as
you pursue your goal.  Sincerely, Pat in SNJ (east coast USA)  LLLL for
over 32 years, LC since 1986.

P.S. I was going to send this privately and in rereading thought I'd share
my NSHO with the whole group :-)

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