Hi All, Coach Smith here again.
This issue has been confusing for a LONG time, partly because "education"
and "certification" are two different processes. Currently there are only
two legally valid, widely recognized credentials relevant to breastfeeding
helpers - "LLL Leader," and "IBCLC."
UNICEF and WHO have recommended two kinds of education/training programs: 18
hours of training to fulfill Baby-Friendly Step Two, and a lactation
management course of 40 hours. Neither agency has made a published comment
on other lengths of educational programs, and neither has addressed
certification or credentials for lactation care providers.
Except for "LLL Leader" and "IBCLC," all other terms used are either
self-proclaimed designations, or "titles" conferred at the end of a course.
Course-specific titles are only as good as the course that confers them.
Currently there are no published or even agreed-upon standards for courses.
The good news is that, in my personal opinion, most lactation courses
available today appear to be helpful and informative.
Education isn't the same as credentials (certification or licensure). For
example, you can earn a degree in accounting but not be a "certified public
accountant" without passing a rigorous test to see if you actually learned
something in the courses you took. A degree in nursing does not
automatically confer a license to practice.
IBLCE was always intended to be an entry-level certification program.  IBLCE
is a long process, akin to earning a masters' degree in a health field. The
longer I'm in this work, the more I'm impressed with the depth and breadth
of the knowledge and skills needed.
I have investigated and written about this many times - check out this
article on my web site
http://www.bflrc.com/ljs/professional/courses%20and%20credentials.htm

Linda J. Smith, BSE, FACCE, IBCLC
Bright Future Lactation Resource Centre
Dayton, OH USA
http://www.bflrc.com

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