Lactation consultant

A lactation consultant helps new mothers breastfeed their babies and solve any problems that may come up.

Required education

ADN or BSN

Average annual salary

$63,000

Payscale.com (Jan. 2026)

Varied

Take on different tasks, patients, and situations every day.

Patient-facing

Work hands-on, directly with patients.

Structured

Follow a routine that allows you to anticipate and prepare for every situation.

Independent

Work on your own or even start your own practice, in some states.

What is the role of a lactation consultant?

You can work for a hospital or for yourself, become an advocate for breastfeeding, design breastfeeding programs or teach continuing education classes.

What you’ll do as a lactation consultant

Advice

You’ll advise patients on successful breastfeeding and breast pump practices.

Education

You’ll teach people about the importance of breastfeeding and hold classes for expectant mothers.

Support

You’ll help patients who are suffering from postpartum depression.

A certified nurse midwife holding a newborn baby

Where you’ll work as a lactation consultant

Lactation consultants work in a variety of settings, including:

Doctors’ offices
Hospitals

How to become a lactation consultant

Get an Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), taking elective courses in neonatal nursing.

When considering a future nursing career, it’s important to explore the different nursing programs available and the paths they offer. With various options like associate degree programs, bachelor’s degree programs, and direct-entry master’s degree programs, prospective students can choose the educational path that best suits their goals and interests.

Pass the NCLEX-RN.

The National Council Licensure Exam (NCLEX) is the all-important step between graduating from nursing school and becoming a nurse. It’s a standardized test, set by the Board of Nursing in each state, that makes sure you have the knowledge and skills you need to work in the field of nursing.

Work as a Registered Nurse, gaining experience in labor and delivery and neonatal nursing.

Get your Lactation Consultant Board Certification from the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners.

You’re ready to work as a lactation consultant!