How to Become a Remote Lactation Consultant: Comprehensive Guide

As the number of people that works remotely continues to rise, remote lactation consultant jobs also offer a unique opportunity for lactation consultants to work from the comfort of their own homes while still providing much-needed support and guidance to new mothers. In this article, we’ll dive into what remote lactation consultant jobs are, the benefits of working in this field, and how to become a remote lactation consultant.

So, whether you’re a new mom looking for support or a lactation consultant interested in a flexible work arrangement, keep reading to learn more about remote lactation consultant jobs.

What Are Remote Lactation Consultant Jobs?

Remote lactation consultant jobs are positions that involve providing lactation support and counseling services to new mothers and families through remote means, such as telemedicine, phone or video calls, messaging, or email. These jobs typically require specialized training and certification as a lactation consultant or specialist, as well as excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Remote lactation consultant jobs may involve helping mothers overcome breastfeeding challenges, providing education and guidance on proper breastfeeding techniques, answering questions and concerns about breastfeeding, and helping mothers develop breastfeeding plans that fit their individual needs and preferences. They may also involve working with healthcare providers, coordinating care with other professionals, and maintaining accurate records and documentation of patient interactions.

Remote lactation consultant jobs can be found in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, private practices, and online platforms. They may be full-time or part-time positions and offer flexible schedules and the ability to work from home or other remote locations.

Benefits of Working as A Remote Lactation Consultant?

Working remotely has a lot of perks and working remotely as a lactation consultant is no different. Here are some benefits we highlighted after some research.

1. Flexibility: Remote work allows lactation consultants to work from anywhere, which gives them the flexibility to choose their schedules and work on their own terms. This can be particularly beneficial for lactation consultants who have young children or other caregiving responsibilities.
2. Increased Reach: Remote work allows lactation consultants to reach clients from all over the world, not just those in their immediate geographic area. This can help them to build a larger client base and expand their business.
3. Reduced Overhead Costs: Working remotely eliminates the need for a physical office space, which can significantly reduce overhead costs associated with running a traditional brick-and-mortar business. This can help lactation consultants to save money and increase their profit margins.
4. Improved Work-Life Balance: Remote work can help lactation consultants achieve a better work-life balance by giving them more control over their schedules and reducing the time and stress associated with commuting to and from a physical office.
5. Increased Job Satisfaction: Many lactation consultants who work remotely report higher job satisfaction levels, as they have greater autonomy and flexibility in their work. This can lead to greater job satisfaction and a more positive outlook on their career.

Remote lactation consultant jobs Career Path

According to ZipRecruiter, here are some related remote lactation consultants’ job titles people searched for when they were using the platform. The most frequently searched job titles are:

1. Virtual Lactation Educator

A virtual lactation educator is a healthcare professional who provides lactation education and support to new mothers and families through online platforms. They may work for hospitals, clinics, or private practices and use video conferencing, phone calls, and messaging apps to communicate with their clients.

The job responsibilities of a virtual lactation educator typically include:

1. Conducting virtual lactation consultations and assessments to help new mothers establish and maintain breastfeeding.
2. Providing education and guidance on proper breastfeeding techniques, including positions, latch, and milk supply.
3. Offering advice on common breastfeeding challenges such as nipple pain, engorgement, and low milk supply.
4. Developing and implementing personalized breastfeeding plans for each client.
5. Collaborating with other healthcare professionals to ensure continuity of care for new mothers and infants.

The salary range of a virtual lactation consultant according to ZipRecruiter can vary depending on their experience and qualifications, as well as the employer and location. The average salary for a remote lactation consultant is around $49,000 to $73,000 manually.

2. Remote Lactation Counselor

A remote Lactation Counselor is a professional who provides lactation support and education to new mothers, either via phone, video chat, or other remote communication methods. They may work independently or as part of a healthcare team, and their job responsibilities typically include:

• Providing guidance and support to new mothers on breastfeeding techniques, including proper latch and positioning, and addressing any concerns or challenges they may face.
• Assessing the breastfeeding relationship between mother and baby and identifying any issues that may need to be addressed.
• Educating new mothers on breast milk production, pumping, and storage.
• Developing and implementing individualized breastfeeding plans to meet the specific needs of each mother and baby.
• Collaborating with other healthcare professionals, such as doctors, nurses, and midwives, to ensure that mothers and babies receive comprehensive care.

According to ZipRecruiter, remote lactation consultant jobs normally earn $26-$66/hr. 

How to Become a Remote Lactation Consultant

Becoming a remote lactation consultant typically involves several steps, including gaining the necessary education, experience, and certifications. Here are the general steps to becoming a remote lactation consultant:

1. Meet the Educational Requirements

To become a lactation consultant, you must have at least a high school diploma or equivalent. However, many lactation consultants also have post-secondary education in a related field, such as nursing, public health, or nutrition. Having a degree or certification in one of these fields can help you better understand the complex physiology of lactation and breastfeeding, as well as the health and nutrition needs of mothers and infants.

Some colleges and universities offer programs specifically focused on lactation and breastfeeding, such as a Bachelor of Science in Lactation or a Certificate in Breastfeeding Management. These programs typically cover topics such as infant development, maternal nutrition, and lactation management.

2. Gain Clinical Experience

Hands-on clinical experience is essential for becoming a successful lactation consultant. Many lactation consultants start by working as a nurse or midwives in a hospital setting, where they can gain experience working with breastfeeding mothers and infants. This allows them to observe and assist with a variety of breastfeeding challenges, such as latching difficulties, milk supply issues, and engorgement.

Other opportunities to gain clinical experience include working in a community health centre, a private practice, or as a breastfeeding peer counselor. Some hospitals and clinics also offer internships or apprenticeships for aspiring lactation consultants.

3. Complete a Lactation Consultant Training Program

After gaining clinical experience, you will need to complete a lactation consultant training program. These programs are typically offered by colleges, universities, and private organizations and are accredited by the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners (IBLCE).

A lactation consultant training program typically consists of around 90 hours of coursework and covers topics such as breastfeeding anatomy and physiology, counseling skills, and ethical issues. Many programs also include a clinical component where students can observe and assist with lactation consultations.

After completing a lactation consultant training program, you will be eligible to sit for the IBLCE exam to become a board-certified lactation consultant (IBCLC). It’s worth noting that the IBLCE exam is quite challenging, so it’s important to thoroughly prepare for the exam by studying and gaining experience in lactation consultation.

4. Pass the IBLCE Exam

After completing a lactation consultant training program, you will be eligible to sit for the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners (IBLCE) exam. This exam is a comprehensive test that assesses your knowledge and skills in lactation consulting. It covers a wide range of topics, including the anatomy and physiology of lactation, infant development, communication and counseling skills, and ethical considerations.

The IBLCE exam is computer-based and consists of multiple-choice questions. It takes around four hours to complete, and you will need to achieve a passing score to become an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC). Once you have passed the exam, you can start practicing as a remote lactation consultant.

5. Build Practice and Network

To build your remote lactation consulting practice, you will need to network with other lactation consultants, market your services online, and reach out to potential clients. Some strategies for building your practice include:

• Creating a website or social media presence to promote your services and expertise
• Joining professional organizations such as the International Lactation Consultant Association (ILCA) to connect with other lactation consultants and stay up-to-date on the latest research and best practices
• Offering your services to local health clinics, hospitals, and paediatricians to build referral networks
• Providing online resources such as blog posts, webinars, and online support groups to attract potential clients and build your reputation as an expert in lactation consulting.

6. Utilize Technology

As a remote lactation consultant, you will need to rely on technology to communicate with your clients. It’s important to be comfortable with various video conferencing tools and communication platforms, such as Skype, Zoom, and WhatsApp. You will also need to be able to use electronic medical records and other software tools to manage your client data and billing.

In addition to technology, you will also need to be able to effectively communicate with your clients through various mediums, such as email, phone, and chat. You will need to be able to provide support and advice to clients in a clear and compassionate manner, while also respecting their privacy and confidentiality. Building trust and rapport with your clients is essential for building a successful remote lactation consulting practice.

How Much Does a Remote Lactation Consultant Make?

According to Ziprecruiter, Remote Lactation Consultants nationwide earn an average annual salary of $83,185. This translates to an hourly rate of $40.60, a weekly income of $1,263, and a monthly income of $5,477. Salaries for Remote Lactation Consultants can vary by as much as $38,000, indicating the potential for career advancement and increased pay based on factors such as location, years of experience, and skill level.

Tips for Getting Remote Lactation Consultant Jobs

Having gone through the previous sections, you now have an idea of what it takes to become a remote lactation consultant, you need to now find a job. So how do you find a job as a remote consultant? Luckily we have highlighted some tips for you to follow.

1. Network

Reach out to colleagues and friends who may have connections or leads on remote lactation consultant jobs. You can also join online lactation consultant groups and forums where you can connect with other professionals in the field and learn about job opportunities.

2. Update Your Resume and Cover Letter

Make sure your resume and cover letter highlight your lactation consulting experience, training, and certifications. Tailor your resume and cover letter to each job application to demonstrate your suitability for the specific role.

3. Utilize Job Boards

There are many job boards that specialize in remote positions, including those in the healthcare industry. Search these sites regularly and set up job alerts to receive notifications about new positions.

4. Create an Online Presence

Creating an online presence can help you stand out to potential employers. This can include a professional website, social media accounts, and online profiles on job boards and professional networking sites.

5. Consider Contract Work

Many lactation consultant jobs may be available as contract work. Consider offering your services as a contractor or freelancer, which can lead to ongoing work opportunities and build your client base.

6. Obtain Additional Certifications

To enhance your skills and marketability as a lactation consultant, consider obtaining additional certifications, such as the International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) certification. This can demonstrate your dedication to the field and your commitment to providing the highest quality care to your clients.

7. Be Flexible

Remote work may require you to work different hours or adapt to different time zones. Be willing to adjust your schedule to accommodate clients and demonstrate your flexibility to potential employers.

Conclusion

With the rise of telehealth services, remote lactation consultations have become increasingly popular and effective. These jobs also offer flexibility and the potential for a good work-life balance.

If you are a certified lactation consultant and are interested in pursuing a remote lactation consultant job, there are many options available to you. You can work for a telehealth company, start your own telehealth practice, or even work with hospitals and clinics that offer remote lactation consultations.

Remote lactation consultant jobs are an excellent way to provide valuable support to new mothers while still having the flexibility to work from home. With the growing demand for lactation consultants, there has never been a better time to explore this exciting career path.