About breastfeeding resources

The Massachusetts Breastfeeding Coalition provides listings for breastfeeding resources as a community service. Names and contact information are provided through the Massachusetts Lactation Consultant Association, La Leche League, Nursing Mothers Council, Massachusetts WIC, and local hospitals and community groups. These resources are not a substitute for medical advice. Please contact us at locate@massbfc.org to report any listing errors.

Lactation Consultants who have the initials IBCLC after their names have completed rigorous training, including hundreds of hours of supervised experience, and passed a certifying exam given by the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners, which is independently accredited. This is the highest level of professional qualification, and they are required to recertify every five years. An IBCLC may charge a fee, which may not be covered by insurance.

Lactation Counselors, including members of La Leche League International and Nursing Mothers Council, are women who have breastfed their own babies and have attended some training courses. They can provide advice about normal situations that arise during the course of breastfeeding, and their services are generally free of charge.

Members of Nursing Mothers Council are volunteers who have completed a four-day training and passed an exam. They recertify every two years by completing breastfeeding education courses.

La Leche League Leaders are experienced breastfeeding mothers who have been accredited to represent La Leche League. Accreditation includes education regarding evidence-based breastfeeding information as well as communication skills. In addition to offering support to individual mothers, many Leaders facilitate regular support meetings to allow for mother-to-mother support. All women interested in breastfeeding are welcome at meetings. Contact your local La Leche League Leader for meeting times and locations.

Certified Lactation Counselors (CLC) have completed a 5-day training program and received a certificate of completion. They may or may not have personal breastfeeding experience.

WIC program leaders support breastfeeding mothers enrolled in the federal program for Women, Infants, and Children. Many WIC offices have peer counselors that can provide support for nursing families. Contact your local WIC office to find out what services are available.

Community breastfeeding groups listed on our website are led by IBCLCs. These groups offer a chance to meet other mothers and get expert advice on breastfeeding. Group times and locations are subject to change. Please call to confirm before attending a group meeting.