Especially for those wanting proficiency in breastfeeding!

We all know that breastfeeding is best, but what can we really do in those first postpartum days to assure breastfeeding success?

This amazing one and one-half day certification course is a hands-on approach for physicians, nurses. midwives, doulas, nursing assistants and childbirth educators who support new mothers beginning to breastfeed.  This course is not to take the place of lactation consultants; it is intended to empower those who care for breastfeeding mothers during the first days postpartum and to empower the mothers!

The Early Lactation Care Specialist Workshop/Certification meets the breastfeeding requirements for DONA International Birth and Postpartum
Doula Certifications.

(see Birth Doula #5 & Postpartum Doula Certification Requirements #5)

The course offers basic knowledge, practical tips, assessment skills and helpful techniques essential for lactation support. This certification will enhance any childbirth education or doula training, or provide the basics for hospitals interested in becoming Baby Friendly or just becoming more proficient at lactation care. 

The course is taught by Donna Walls RN, BSN, IBCLC, Master Herbalist and Aromatherapist.  Donna has been an RN for 32 years and for 30 years, has worked with expectant and new parents.  She is a certified childbirth educator, Lactation Consultant, and  has a Diploma in Herbal Sciences from Australasian College.  In 1995, she developed and opened the first Alternative Birth Center within a hospital setting in the state of Ohio.  An entrepreneur, she is the owner of Herbal Harmonies and Mother Earth Sundries in Dayton, Ohio.  She is an internationally known author and speaker, presenting workshops, programs and speaking at conferences. In 2007,Donna became the president of OLCA ~ the Ohio Lactation Consultants Association.

Attendees will receive 10 nursing CEUs!

Here is what attendees are saying about the Early Lactation Care Specialist Certification Workshop:

"Donna was great.  Even though I am an RN, I learned so much about breastfeeding in the first two hours!"

"The workshop was great. The manual and the extra goodies are really helpful."

"WOW. This will really help my doula work."

2009 Dates

Register now online

Early Lactation Care Specialist Certification Program Objectives

1. Describe the anatomy and physiology of Lactation
2. Demonstrate correct latch and position.
3. Identify normal newborn feeding patterns.
4. Define the request and supply process
5. Discuss the support for the initiation of breastfeeding
6. Explain nursing interventions for common early concerns
7. Discuss pumping when separated from the baby
8. Describe breastfeeding in special circumstances

Advantages to becoming a certified Lactation Care Specialist

• Demonstrate your support for the role of breastfeeding in infant and child health.
• Assure your advanced skill level to current or potential employers
• Build confidence in your breastfeeding support skills
• Serve as a peer role model in lactation care skills
• Improve patient satisfaction scores within your group or institution