Factors Contributing to Diversity in a Pathway 2 IBCLC Training Program

Abstract: Birthing persons with access to IBCLC’s are three times more likely to succeed at breastfeeding. However, the lactation work force that exists in Michigan suffers from a striking lack of diversity. This means that birthing persons of color across the state do not have the same access to racially congruent high-level lactation support, a system barrier to impact realization. The disparities in breastfeeding outcomes persist.

The Lactation Consultant Program (LCP) became a fully accredited Pathway 2 academic lactation training program in partnership with Henry Ford College in 2019. The program is designed for individuals with a high school diploma who can access a health sciences education but have less clinical experience in the breastfeeding field.

After 3 academic cycles, the LCP has successfully matriculated 27 women through the program with a pass rate of 100%. Thirty-six percent identified as Black, with a total of 56% identifying as women of color.

Program design factors that supported the recruitment and success of the diverse student body included: partnership with a community college with a strong history of diversity and inclusion, access to financial aid, a diverse didactic faculty, culturally humble materials including equipment, pictures, etc, no clinical fee due to philanthropic support, remote format for didactic lectures to increase accessibility and flexibility, and funds dedicated to books and fees for those with economic challenges.

The racially congruent workforce may reduce barriers to effective breastfeeding support for birthing persons of color, improving breastfeeding outcomes and, ultimately, survival for our most under-resourced residents.

Publication: Not applicable 

Diversity and Inclusion: The Lactation Consultant Program was born out of a need to diversify the lactation workforce. We believe that the highest level of lactation training should be accessible to everyone. Our goal is to create class rosters that reflect the community we serve. We encourage and support the diverse voices of our students and celebrate their success as they go on to change the lactation field in Southeast Michigan and beyond.

This study was also supported by the authors:
Dr. Paula K. Schreck, Program Director, The Lactation Consultant Program