What is an IBCLC?

An International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) is an allied healthcare professional who specializes in the clinical management of breastfeeding. An IBCLC is certified by the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners, Inc. under the direction of the United States National Commission for Certifying Agencies. International Board Certified Lactation Consultants are also known as Registered Lactation Consultants (RLC), these terms are used interchangeably. IBCLCs can be found in a wide variety of settings including private practice, working with home birth midwives, hospitals and birth centers, pediatric and obstetric offices, public health clinics such as the Women, Infants and Children (WIC) program as well as many other settings. IBCLCs are adaptable, and provide personalized care to mothers and their infants. IBCLCs practice ethically as our Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics require. IBCLCs are knowledgeable in many complex breastfeeding issues and are required to practice using up to date evidence based practices in lactation. IBCLCs are trained in research methods and evaluation as required by our detailed content outline. We study applying research into practice, appraising and interpreting research and utilizing strong evidence to impact policies and protocols that support breastfeeding. Above all, International Board Certified Lactation Consultants are sensitive to cultural differences and the holistic needs of breastfeeding women and their infants. We are different than all other healthcare providers with our unique skill set. We are here to help you meet the breastfeeding goals you set for yourself and your child.
Hi, I’m Julie Gladney!

My name is Julie Gladney BS, LPN, IBCLC, RLC, International Board Certified Lactation Consultant. I have been working in this field for over 17 years. As a parent of several children of different ages, each with a unique infant feeding experience. I am in touch with the needs of parents as they navigate what is for most uncharted territory. I bring compassion, experience, skill and support to offer. I have an inquisitive mind, and I always want to learn more. If I don’t have the answer to a question, I will seek more information until we do have an answer. I look forward to meeting you and hearing your story!

I grew up in Lorain, Ohio, right across the street from majestic Lake Erie. I relocated to southeast to attend Ohio University in Athens, Ohio. Although I greatly missed the relaxing Lake Erie breezes, I soon fell in the love with the Appalachian rolling hills of Athens County, Ohio. I earned a Bachelor’s of Science in Communication, majoring in Communication in Human Services from Ohio University, in Athens.

Soon after, I encountered bad advice related to breastfeeding as a first time mother which was the trigger that led me down the path of becoming an IBCLC Lactation Consultant. I later received a diploma of Practical Nursing from Hocking College, in Nelsonville, Ohio. I am currently licensed as a Practical Nurse (LPN) in the State of Ohio. I live in southeast ohio with my husband and children. I love coffee, the beach and breastfeeding. I enjoy seeing live music and spending time with friends.
I am a member of the Ohio Lactation Consultant Association (OLCA) currently serving as Third Party Reimbursement Officer. I also hold current membership in the Appalachian Breastfeeding Network (ABN), the Ohio Breastfeeding Alliance (OBA), the United States Lactation Consultant Association (USLCA) and the International Lactation Consultant Association (ILCA).
***Information on this website and any exterior content linked to it is provided for educational purposes only. Never delay seeking or discontinue medical care and treatment because of any information on this website or its external links. Online information is NOT a substitute for an evaluation by an IBCLC.***