A physician who is board-certified in breastfeeding medicine has undergone specialized medical training focused on breastfeeding and lactation issues. This board certification requires completion of medical school followed by residency training in a relevant field such as pediatrics, family medicine, or obstetrics/gynecology, and additional training specifically in breastfeeding medicine.
In order to qualify for the North American Board of Breastfeeding and Lactation Medicine, a physician must have practiced breastfeeding and lactation medicine independently for at least 3 years and have a minimum of 45 continuing medical education hours related to lactation. These physicians are equipped to diagnose and treat medical issues related to breastfeeding, such as lactation difficulties, nipple pain, infant weight gain problems, and maternal health issues as well as to induce lactation.
A lactation consultant does not need to be a physician and may come from various backgrounds, including nursing, midwifery, or other allied health professions. While they may not have a medical degree, they have typically undergone extensive training and education in lactation support and counseling. Lactation consultants are skilled in providing practical assistance and guidance to mothers on breastfeeding techniques, positioning, latching, and overcoming common breastfeeding challenges. They often work closely with healthcare providers, including physicians, to support breastfeeding mothers and infants, but they can not diagnose or treat medical conditions themselves.
Dr. Thuet is a pediatrician and BOTH a lactation consultant and Utah’s first board-certified breastfeeding and lactation medicine specialist, blending all three skillsets together to help you navigate every step of your breastfeeding journey.