CLE (CAPPA) - Certified Lactation Educator

The Certified Lactation Educator (CLE) certification is designed for individuals specializing in providing education and support to breastfeeding mothers. This certification emphasizes skills in teaching breastfeeding classes, offering lactation support, and promoting breastfeeding as a public health strategy.

Completion Time: 20 hours

Eligibility and Certification Requirements

• Interest or involvement in maternal and child health, breastfeeding support, or related fields.

• Completion of a CLE training program, which includes coursework in lactation management, teaching strategies, and counseling skills.

• Some programs may require the completion of additional practical experience or a supervised practicum.

• Passing a certification examination, if required by the training organization.

Cost: A traditional in-person or virtual training course costs $550 and up (CAPPA). The training class fee includes the first year of annual membership (a $75.00 value). Fees may vary by organization.

Certification Process

Enroll in and complete a CLE training program offered by a recognized organization. Options include in-person, hybrid, online and accelerated programs.

Complete any required practical experience or practicum.

Successfully pass the certification examination, if offered by the training organization.

CLE certification typically requires renewal every 5 years, which may involve completing continuing education credits in lactation and breastfeeding support and any required recertification fees.

Continuing education for CLEs may include updates on lactation research, advanced lactation management techniques, communication skills, and public health approaches to breastfeeding promotion.

For specific information regarding Certified Lactation Educator certification, including eligibility criteria, course content, examination details, and renewal processes, consulting directly with professional lactation organizations such as ALPP, CAPPA, or LER is recommended. These organizations offer comprehensive training and certification programs for individuals seeking to specialize in lactation education and support.

Career Opportunities

CLEs work in various settings including hospitals, birthing centers, public health clinics, and private lactation consulting practices.

They are responsible for teaching breastfeeding classes, providing individual lactation consultations, and advocating for breastfeeding-friendly practices in the community.

Other related certifications include:

• ALPP Certified Lactation Counselor (CLC)

• ALPP Advanced Nurse Lactation Consultant (ANLC)

• ALPP Advanced Lactation Consultant (ALC)

• International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC)