Lactation Consultant Schools in Missouri - MO

Lactation consultants work to assist new mothers in learning the correct techniques and skills that lead to successful breastfeeding. While many who are already nurses choose to continue their education and become lactation consultants, there are other pathways to lactation consultant training in Missouri. This training consists of two sections: an educational, academic, classroom component; and a practical, clinical component which provides hands-on experience for the prospective lactation consultant. In addition to nursing, other health care fields such as health administration, medical and surgical technology, and health services can lead to a career in lactation consulting. Employers of lactation consultants tend to prefer that candidates for jobs hold a master degree, although some will consider employment of candidates with a bachelor degree.

Beyond getting an academic degree, specialized training is required to work within the field of lactation consulting in Missouri. This training will focus on elements of breastfeeding, lactation and maternal health. Providers of such training in Missouri may be found online or in institutions. Common courses range from 45 to 200 credit hours and include Growth Parameters and Developmental Milestones, Use of Technology in Breastfeeding, and Ethical and Legal Issues. Following completion of your health care degree and lactation specific training, you must also undergo practical, clinical experience. This experience may be offered by your lactation training program or you may seek it out on your own at medical facilities throughout the state of Missouri.

Through campus based and online programs, aspiring Lactation Consultants in Kansas City, St. Louis, Springfield and Independence, Missouri may be able to prepare themselves for the possibility of employment in some of the largest hospitals and healthcare facilities in the state including the St. Johns Mercy Medical Center, St. Anthony’s Medical Center, Barnes Jewish Hospital and Missouri Baptist Medical Center.