Hi Lactnetters, 


I'm just getting started in my studies toward by IBCLC. I know I have a long road before me, with A LOT to learn (you all are very interesting and I've already learned so much from just reading all your posts). 


This is a big career change for me. Right now I'm a newspaper photojournalist and when my son was born (at 30 weeks) almost 19 months ago, my life turned upside down and inside out (in the best possible way). I realized I needed a new pathway and it needed to be something I'm personally passionate about, is somewhat flexible and would have me working, in a real, human way, with other mothers. 


Anyhow, I'm just starting out and my wonderful, yet very pragmatic husband, wants real, hard info on a career as an IBCLC before I get too far along. I was hoping some of you all might be able to provide me some info. Please write me off-board at [log in to unmask], so we don't clog up the listserve with info I'm sure most of you already know. 


Anyhow, I was very interested in the recent thread about the length of consults and how much you all charge for that time. It looked like $175 was a pretty common amount for a 90 minute consult... I'm curious how that breaks down for you? Is there fees/costs that must be paid on a regular basis? How much/what kind of equipment must an IBCLC invest into? How much would you say you bring home after the costs if you are private practice? 


What are the disadvantages/advantages of working in different types of environments? Hospital/pedi office/private practice/LC practice? 


How does insurance work? I saw someone refer to insurance through IBCLC? Would I need more insurance, or is it sufficient? 


And those of you who had young children at the time you started... how did you handle that? Nannies? Bring the baby with you? If things are timed out the way I think they might, I might have a wee nursling around the time I'd take the boards. Should I rethink the timing? 


If this makes any difference, I live in Portland, OR, a pretty pro-breastfeeding area of the country. 


I'd love any other information that you all would like to pass along.  


Thanks so much in advance! 


Olivia (who is the proud mama of a healthy preemie that's still an avid and enthusiastic nursling!)

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