Overview
The Certified Lactation Support Specialist™ (CLSS™) credential represents a certificant’s achievement in meeting the ethical, educational, and assessment standards established by Birthwork Institute™. This policy outlines the proper use of the CLSS™ credential and associated trademarks, ensuring clarity, accuracy, and legal protection for the certification program.
Purpose
The purpose of this policy is to safeguard the integrity of the Certified Lactation Support Specialist™ (CLSS™) credential and the Birthwork Institute™ trademarks. Proper use helps prevent public confusion, ensures accurate representation of qualifications, and demonstrates ongoing compliance with certification requirements.
- Ownership of the Credential and Trademarks
- Birthwork Institute™ is the exclusive owner of the CLSS™ certification program, the Certified Lactation Support Specialist™ (CLSS™) designation, and all associated logos, names, and marks.
- The CLSS™ credential may only be used by individuals who have earned and currently hold an active certification status.
- Certificants acknowledge that they acquire no rights of ownership in the CLSS™ marks and may use them only as permitted under this policy.
- Proper Use of the CLSS™ Credential
Individuals who have earned and currently maintain an active certification may use the credential as follows:
- Written Credential Format
- On first reference: Certified Lactation Support Specialist™ (CLSS™)
- Subsequent references: CLSS™
- Acceptable Use Examples
- In email signatures
- On professional websites or directories
- In résumés, CVs, or bios
- On printed or digital business materials
- When identifying oneself in a professional capacity related to lactation support
- Requirements for Accuracy
- The credential must only be used while certification is active.
- Certificants must represent their credentialed status truthfully and may not imply qualifications, licensure, or clinical authority beyond the CLSS™ scope of practice.
- The credential may not be used to suggest endorsement, partnership, or affiliation with Birthwork Institute™ beyond current certification.
- Improper or Prohibited Use of the Credential
The following uses are not permitted:
- Using the credential after certification has lapsed, been suspended, or been revoked
- Altering the credential name, abbreviations, or required trademark symbols
- Using the credential in a misleading or deceptive manner
- Presenting oneself as a trainer, instructor, or representative of Birthwork Institute™ without written authorization
- Using the credential in connection with services or claims outside the CLSS™ scope of practice
- Incorporating the marks into business names, domain names, product names, or social media handles
- Use of Birthwork Institute™ and CLSS™ Trademarks
Permitted Uses
- Active certificants may use the CLSS™ credential and trademark to truthfully indicate their certification status.
Restrictions
Certificants may not:
- Use the CLSS™ or Birthwork Institute™ name, logo, or trademarks in a way that suggests ownership or organizational authority
- Modify, recreate, or distribute logos without written permission
- Use the marks to advertise or sell training, courses, or certification services
- Apply the marks to merchandise, promotional items, or commercial products
All uses must respect trademark protection requirements and maintain the integrity of the brand.
- Misuse, Enforcement, and Loss of Privileges
Birthwork Institute™ reserves the right to review and investigate suspected misuse of the credential or trademarks. Misuse may result in:
- Written notice requiring corrective action
- Suspension or revocation of certification
- Referral to the Complaints and Disciplinary Policy
- Legal action when necessary to protect intellectual property rights
Failure to comply with this policy may result in permanent loss of permission to use the credential or associated marks.
- Verification of Certification Status
Birthwork Institute™ may provide public or third-party verification of a certificant’s status consistent with its confidentiality and verification procedures. Only individuals listed as active are permitted to use the credential.
- Questions and Contact
For questions regarding proper credential or trademark use, or to request written authorization for specific uses, contact support@birthworkinstitute.com
Last updated: December 2025
