Mothers’ Satisfaction with Breastfeeding Assistance from International Board Certified Lactation Consultants: An Integrative Review

INTRODUCTION: Use of International Board Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLCs) is associated with higher breastfeeding rates. However, little is known regarding mothers' perceptions of satisfaction with IBCLC encounters. METHODS: Database and ancestry searches resulted in 511 reports published between 2000 and 2025 about qualitative research conducted in the United States. Forty-one articles progressed to full review, and six articles satisfied all inclusion criteria for this integrative review. RESULTS: All research teams used the descriptive qualitative design to analyze data collected between 4 weeks and 8 months postpartum across a diverse representation of U.S. mothers. The body of evidence reveals that the assistance received from IBCLCs is multifaceted, because various aspects play crucial roles in ensuring that mothers feel supported. DISCUSSION: Findings highlight the importance of IBCLCs' practical expertise, hand in hand with their reassuring support. Mothers perceived satisfaction with consultation when the IBCLC offered sufficient time, provided encouragement, demonstrated knowledge, addressed their concerns, showed empathy for their struggles, and shared information that empowered them to breastfeed their infants with confidence.