Lesson List

Certification Requirements?

Overview of breastfeeding specialist certification requirements and forms.

1. Evolution of Breastfeeding?

Understand the evolution of breastfeeding and cultural shift from nursing to bottle feeding and back again.

2. Support Strategies?

Learn how to empower and support families to breastfeed.

3. Breast Anatomy?

Overview of breast anatomy.

4. Basics of Breastfeeding?

Learn how to get started breastfeeding.

5. Pumping and Options?

Understanding pumping, purchasing breast milk, & other options.

6. Beyond first month?

Strategies and information for breastfeeding after the first month.

7. Common Challenges?

Review of breastfeeding challenges and implementing strategies to manage and overcome.

8. Breastfeeding and Culture?

This module examines culture, feminism, and bias in breastfeeding.
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Steps to Complete

Certification Steps

There are three steps to complete certification as a breastfeeding specialist:

1. Take Breastfeeding Specialist Training Course

2. Complete required reading:

– Your Guide to Breastfeeding, by US Department Office of Women’s Health (included in course)

– Breastfeeding Handbook, by Newfoundland and Labrador (included in course)

– Counseling the Nursing Mother, latest edition by Lauwers and Swisher (students purchase)


3. Document 40 hours of breastfeeding support

Program participants must assist families with breastfeeding providing a minimum of 40 hours of support as part of the steps to complete certification. These hours should include a minimum of two different families or mothers and babies. Participants will track support hours using the online documentation form. This requirement gives students the opportunity to practice their breastfeeding support skills and experience varied situations assisting families.

BSC Program Completion

Participants will earn the Breastfeeding Specialist certification (BSC) once they have completed the program requirements. This certification will expire after four years. At which time they should renew certification by submitting 10 contact hours specifically related to breastfeeding/lactation to demonstrate they have maintained and/or increased their breastfeeding knowledge and skills.

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