The CLSS™ Pathway
Your step-by-step guide to becoming a Certified Lactation Support Specialist™
Becoming a Certified Lactation Support Specialist™ (CLSS™) is more than earning a credential, it is a professional commitment to evidence-based, family-centered lactation support.
The Birthwork Institute™ guides you through a transparent, seven-step process designed to uphold the highest standards of knowledge, skill, and ethical lactation support.
Full requirements, policies, and procedures are detailed in the CLSS™ Candidate Handbook
Step 1. Complete Training
Begin by completing an aligned CLSS™ training program covering lactation foundations, counseling skills, cultural humility, and professional ethics. Training programs may be delivered by providers that meet the Birthwork Institute™ Standards of Practice.
Step 2. Meet the Experience Requirements
Document your hands-on experience supporting families in perinatal or early-family settings. Acceptable experience may include childbirth education, doula work, clinical observation, or other relevant roles within your professional scope. Practice narrative requirements include documentation for three (3) distinct client cases. One prenatal lactation education case, One early postpartum lactation support case, One pumping support case.
Step 3. Submit Your Certification Application
Submit your Certification Application with proof of training, experience documentation, and the required fee.
Each application is reviewed by the Birthwork Institute™ to confirm all requirements have been met. You may be contacted for clarification or additional documentation during review.
See Full Fee Policy
Step 4. Pass the CLSS™ Examination
After submitting all the required documentation, demonstrate your competence by passing the CLSS™ Certification Examination. The exam measures understanding of lactation principles, scope of practice, and professional ethics, ensuring that every certificant meets consistent, evidence-based benchmarks.
Step 5. Satisfy the Code of Ethics
Review and agree to the CLSS™ Code of Ethics, affirming your commitment to integrity, respect, and culturally responsive care.
Ethical conduct is required for both certification and renewal to maintain public trust in the credential.
Step 6. Earn the CLSS™ Designation
Once approved, you are officially recognized as a Certified Lactation Support Specialist™ (CLSS™).
Designees receive:
- A digital certificate suitable for display
- Verification for employers and clients
- The right to use the CLSS™ credential after their name as described in the CLSS™ Use of Credential and Trademark Policy.
Step 7. Maintain and Renew Your Certification
The CLSS™ credential is valid for three years.
To renew, certificants complete continuing education in lactation, perinatal care, or ethics, remain in good ethical standing, and submit renewal documentation with the applicable fee.
Renewal ensures ongoing professional growth and alignment with current best practices.
Ready to take the next step in your professional journey? Explore the certification process through the Birthwork Institute™ and become part of a growing network of skilled, compassionate lactation support professionals.
Full requirements, policies, and procedures are detailed in the CLSS™ Candidate Handbook.
