How and why did you become a lactation consultant ?

[DoulaPaula]

I am a doula in training and am also super interested in becoming a lactation consultant. I've been searching for info on it and have only found how to become an Educator.
For those of you who are lactation consultant's, how did you achieve your
training and certification ? And are you glad you did it and do you enjoy it ?
Oh, and have you been busy with work ?
I think it's something I really want to do - I'd just like to hear what you
gals think of it.....

[cali4niachef]

I worked as BF peer counselor at two local hospitals, I worked directly with IBCLC. I was hired by WIC but I was different then every other PC WIC employs because they normally work in the community and clinics. I worked for 2.5yrs and during this time I occurred over 500hrs. You need to work directly under supervision of an LC for the breastfeeding counseling hours to count.

Wichita State offers a Human Lactation course by Jan Rouridan via distance learning through Wichita State Univ. It accounts for 45 lactation education hours, 60 if you write a paper. I'd like to do this one day.

Each year you are a LLL Leader accounts towards 500hrs of breastfeeding counseling, you can use only 2yrs. However it should be noted it is "frowned upon" to use LLL as a means to become an IBCLC.

Also there are a few college courses that are recommended you take; A&P, sociology, psych, child development, nutrition and medical terminology.
The IBCLC is offered once a year at major cities.

I would recommend checking into becoming a WIC PC(WIC breastfeeding peer counselor), if you do become one you must work with an IBCLC that has recert. within 5yrs. Most WIC PC coordinators are LC's, if not they should be. You could volunteer as a BF PC at a local hospital, the LC's could groom you if they are willing to. You could also become a LLL Leader.

Below are some links for more information on becoming an LC.
Approved and Accredited Courses
Becoming a Lactation Consultant
Kellymom Links to becoming an IBCLC
Requirements

As of yet I know I will become a LLL Leader but Im undecided if I want to be an IBCLC.

I HOPE THAT HELPS!