How to Start a Lactation Consultant Business in 5 Easy Steps

Starting your own lactation consultant business is one of the most rewarding ways to combine your passion for supporting mothers and babies with the flexibility of running your own practice. Whether you’re newly certified as an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) or a seasoned professional looking to take the leap into entrepreneurship, this guide will show you exactly how to start a lactation consultant business step by step.

Here’s everything you need to know to launch your practice, grow your client base, and make a real impact in your community or beyond.

Step 1: Clarify Your Vision and Goals

Before you dive into setting up your business, take some time to clarify your vision. Ask yourself:

• What type of clients do you want to work with?
• How do you see your business fitting into your life?
• Do you want to focus on virtual care, in-person consultations, or a mix of both?

Having a clear vision will help you make better decisions as you set up your business. For example, if your goal is to work with busy moms who need flexible care, you might prioritize building a virtual practice. If you enjoy connecting with local families, an in-person model could be your focus.

Pro Tip: Define Your Niche

The more specific you are about your ideal client, the easier it will be to market your services. For example, you could specialize in helping first-time moms with breastfeeding basics or focus on tongue-tie troubleshooting for older babies.

Vision Exercise

Write down your ideal workday: How many clients would you like to see? Would you prefer group sessions, private consultations, or a combination? Clarity here will shape the foundation of your business plan.

Step 2: Get Your Certifications and Licenses in Order

If you’re already an IBCLC, you’ve done the hard work of becoming certified. But starting a business requires a few additional steps to ensure you’re operating legally and professionally.

IBCLC Certification

Make sure your certification is current and that you’re meeting the continuing education requirements to maintain your status.

Register Your Business

Set up your business as a legal entity, such as an LLC (Limited Liability Company), to protect your personal assets and make tax preparation easier. This process involves:

• Choosing a name for your business.
• Registering with your state or local government.
• Obtaining any necessary business licenses.

Insurance Considerations

Decide whether you’ll accept insurance or work on a cash-pay model. If you plan to accept insurance, you’ll need to get credentialed with networks like BCBS, Aetna, and Cigna (more on this later).

Getting Started with Liability Insurance

Even if you’re cash-pay only, liability insurance is essential. This is probably one of the most important things to consider on how to stay a lactation consultant business. This protects you in case of any legal disputes or accidents during a consultation. Research providers who specialize in healthcare professionals.

Step 3: Create Your Business Plan

A business plan doesn’t have to be overwhelming or complicated, but having one in place will give you a roadmap to follow. Here’s what to include:

Your Services

Outline exactly what you’ll offer. Common options include:

• Initial breastfeeding consultations.
• Follow-up sessions for troubleshooting.
• Prenatal classes or group workshops.

Pricing Structure

Decide how you’ll price your services. Will you charge by the hour, per session, or offer packages? Research what other IBCLCs in your area are charging to stay competitive.

Insurance Billing Plan

If you’ll accept insurance, build a system for billing and claims. Tools like MilkNotes or JaneApp can help streamline this process.

Marketing Strategy

Include a basic overview of how you’ll attract clients. Focus on free or low-cost methods like networking, social media, and Google My Business listings to start.

Financial Goals

Set realistic financial goals for your first year. We ultimately start a lactation consultant business to make money so let’s not overlook this important step. This could include income targets, client numbers, or specific milestones like hosting your first workshop.

Step 4: Build Your Brand and Online Presence

Your brand is what sets you apart and makes your business memorable to potential clients. Building a strong online presence is essential for modern businesses, especially if you want to reach clients beyond your local area.

Choose a Memorable Name

Pick a name that reflects your values and services. For example, “Nurture Lactation” or “Milk & Mom.”

Create a Website

Your website is the foundation of your online presence. It should include:

• A homepage that highlights your services and speaks to moms’ pain points.
• An “About Me” page that showcases your credentials and builds trust.
• A booking page that makes it easy for clients to schedule consultations.

Invest in SEO

Optimize your website with keywords like “lactation consultant near me” or “virtual lactation services.” These phrases help your site rank higher on Google, making it easier for moms to find you.

Set Up Social Media Accounts

Choose one or two platforms to start with, like Instagram or Pinterest. Post educational content, testimonials, and behind-the-scenes glimpses of your work to engage potential clients.

Start an Email List

Building an email list helps you stay connected with potential and past clients. Share helpful tips, upcoming workshops, and reminders to book follow-ups.

Step 5: Start Marketing and Finding Clients

Once your business is set up, it’s time to let the world know you’re open for business. Here’s how to start attracting your first clients:

Leverage Your Network

Partner with local birth professionals like doulas, midwives, and pediatricians to get referrals. Offer to host a free breastfeeding workshop to introduce yourself to their clients.

Harness the Power of Social Media

Use Instagram or TikTok to share quick breastfeeding tips, success stories, and educational content. Moms love relatable, helpful posts that provide value.

Encourage Reviews and Testimonials

Ask satisfied clients to leave reviews on Google or Facebook. Positive reviews build trust and make it easier for new clients to choose you.

Run Targeted Ads

Once you’ve generated some income, consider running Facebook or Google Ads targeting moms in your area. Focus on specific pain points like “breastfeeding latch issues” or “virtual lactation care today.”

Offer Free Resources

Create a freebie, such as a breastfeeding guide or checklist, to attract email sign-ups. This positions you as a trusted expert and keeps you top of mind for future consultations.

Attend Community Events

Look for opportunities to attend or sponsor local parenting events, baby expos, or prenatal classes. Setting up a table or giving a short talk can establish you as a go-to resource.

What’s Next for Building Your Thriving IBCLC Practice?

Now that we have talked about the general steps for how to start a lactation consultant business what’s next? Starting your own lactation consultant business might feel overwhelming at first, but by following these five steps, you’ll be well on your way to creating a profitable and impactful practice. Remember, the key to success is clarity, consistency, and a willingness to adapt as you grow.

If you’re ready to take the guesswork out of building your business, our IBCLC Business Accelerator course walks you through everything step-by-step, from setting up your practice to signing your first clients. Check it out today to get started!