How Much Does a Lactation Consultant or IBCLC Cost in Rancho Santa Margarita, CA?

Median package price

$300

Typical range $175–$1,962

Median hourly rate

$70/hr

Typical range $50–$100/hr

Near Rancho Santa Margarita California United States
Median package $300 $400 $250
Typical package range $175–$1,962 $175–$2,025 $147–$1,200
Median hourly rate $70/hr $65/hr $50/hr

Based on 207 package prices from 74 providers listed on Bornbir within 150 miles of Rancho Santa Margarita, CA. Updated September 2026.

See national lactation consultant prices

The cost of a lactation consultant in Rancho Santa Margarita, CA can be influenced by several factors:

  • Type of Certification

    International Board Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLCs) typically charge more than Certified Lactation Counselors (CLCs) due to their advanced training and ability to handle complex breastfeeding issues.

  • Visit Type

    In-home visits generally cost more than office visits or virtual consultations. Many consultants in Rancho Santa Margarita offer telehealth options at reduced rates.

  • Insurance Coverage

    California Medicaid provides partial coverage for Rancho Santa Margarita residents, including lactation counseling furnished by or billed through a medical provider. Direct payment to an independent IBCLC working outside a clinic or the WIC peer-counseling program remains limited. The area has a strong provider market, with 101 lactation consultants listed within 60 miles. For private insurance, federal requirements generally call for most plans to cover breastfeeding support and breast pumps without cost sharing.

  • Number of Sessions

    Some consultants offer package deals for multiple sessions, which can be more cost-effective than paying per visit, especially for ongoing breastfeeding challenges.

  • HSA and FSA Eligibility

    Lactation consulting is an IRS-eligible medical expense, meaning you can use HSA or FSA funds to cover the cost without paying taxes on those dollars.

  • Experience and Specialization

    Consultants with specialized expertise in areas like tongue ties, premature infant feeding, or relactation may charge higher rates.

When looking for a lactation consultant in Rancho Santa Margarita, CA, it's a good idea to check with your insurance provider first, as many plans cover lactation services. Interview several consultants to find one who fits your needs and budget, and ask about their specific credentials, experience, and what each session includes.

How to find an IBCLC near me

01

Tell us your breastfeeding needs

Answer a few quick questions

02

Match with breastfeeding specialists

We bring qualified pros to you

03

Start messaging your lactation counselor

Find the right fit

Get matched

Share details about your breastfeeding needs, match with highly rated and certified IBCLCs near you

Extensive IBCLC network

Begin matching with our network of 1,400+ certified IBCLCs, easily message those who match your needs, and show interest in learning more.

Discover providers near you

Real parent reviews

Gain insight from reviews by fellow parents to make a well-informed decision.

Found 104 Lactation Consultants in Rancho Santa Margarita, CA

Carla Michael

California

5.0 (4 reviews)

Carla Michael

6 years of experience
Accepts insurance
Packages from $6,854

I’m a community-based birth worker and maternal health advocate with a deep commitment to supporting families through pregnancy, birth, and the postpartum journey with care that is informed, calm, and centered on dignity. My work is rooted in both lived experience and years of supporting families through community initiatives focused on maternal wellness and emotional support. I also lead a maternal mental health initiative that brings mothers together in meaningful ways which build connection, healing, and shared knowledge across generations. I am especially passionate about improving birth outcomes and ensuring families feel informed, respected, and supported in every decision they make. My approach to birth is grounded in trust in the body, education, and advocacy which help parents feel safe, seen, and empowered no matter how their birth unfolds. I bring strong skills in emotional support, birth preparation education, and continuity of care, along with experience working in community settings that center Black maternal health and holistic, culturally responsive care. My goal is always to hold space where families feel both protected and empowered as they step into parenthood. Outside of birth work, I bring a warm, down-to-earth energy and love finding joy in the small things, whether that’s roller skating, music that sets the mood, or laughter that makes a hard day feel lighter. I believe joy is part of healing too, and I try to carry that into every space I’m in.

Recent review

Carla is a true God send! I'm so grateful to have found her. I was searching for a doula because I needed someone to go into the labor/delivery room and advocate for me should things not go as planned. With her help and guidance, I was able to labor successfully at home, managing my own pain, and she was right there with me to welcome my little one into the world. After leaving the hospital, I struggled tremendously with breastfeeding. She knew how important it was to me so she wouldn't let me give up. Thanks to her wisdom and helpful tips, I successfully nursed my little one for a yr and a half! Thank you again!!

- Wanda R.

Veronica Hinojosa-Stang

Los Angeles, California

4.8 (16 reviews)

Veronica Hinojosa-Stang

26 years of experience
Accepts insurance
$39/hr

Veronica Hinojosa-Stang — Postpartum & NICU Doula, Infant Sleep Coach With 26 years of experience supporting over 1,000 families, I provide compassionate and expert postpartum care in the Greater Los Angeles & Long Beach area. I specialize in guiding parents through the most critical first weeks — whether at home or following NICU care — helping both babies and parents thrive. My expertise includes: Newborn care and hands-on coaching NICU & post-NICU support Breastfeeding & lactation guidance Gentle infant sleep training Daddy Doula coaching Surrogacy & adoption newborn support International and travel support for families in need Every family receives a personalized plan that nurtures baby, supports parent confidence, and creates a joyful, empowered start to parenthood. Nest and rest, while I take care of the rest, You deserve the best! Your Doula, Veronica!

Recent review

We hired Ms. Veronica as a night doula and newborn care specialist for our two daughters. We first reached out to Ms. Veronica before the birth of our first daughter and worked with her during those early months, then again when she traveled with us for the birth of our second daughter, when we hired her as our Traveling Doula. We highly recommend her as a doula in any capacity. As we were getting ready and preparing for the arrival of our first baby, we learned about the classes Ms. Veronica offers as a New Parent Educator. We decided to take three private one-on-one classes with her, including her One-on-One Newborn Care Class and New Daddy Doula Class. These sessions gave both of us the opportunity to learn together and prepare for what to expect before bringing our baby home. As first-time parents, having that education and preparation before our daughter's birth was incredibly valuable and helped us feel much more knowledgeable and confident going into parenthood. Her expertise in newborn care was obvious from our very first weeks with her. She shared countless tips we never would have found in a book or online, drawn from her many years of experience. Neither of us had much prior experience raising babies, but we already felt confident after just two meetings with her.We specifically wanted a doula who wouldn't simply take over, but who would guide us so we could continue providing the best care for our children after she was gone. Ms. Veronica was thorough in communicating and explaining her reasoning behind everything she did. She was meticulous about tracking feedings and wet diapers, and always had a plan to keep our babies happy and thriving in their earliest months.We were also impressed by how flexible she was with our dates, since it's notoriously hard to predict when a baby will arrive. This was put to the test when she traveled with us for our second daughter as our Traveling Doula. A situation that normally would have been stressful and exhausting, but she made it far easier to manage. She was also accommodating about adjusting our daily schedule, since we were both still working and not yet on parental leave.The moment we remember most is how she sleep-trained our first daughter. She built a plan and continually adapted it as needed, quickly getting our daughter to 12 hours of sleep through scheduled feedings - a change that gave us both much-needed rest. Even today, our daughter still sleeps 12 hours every night. We honestly believe every parent should have someone like her whether they are first-time parents or need a helping hand. It can feel a little intimidating to have someone new caring for your newborn, but we never once hesitated to trust her. She cares for your baby as if it were her own, while setting you up for success as first-time parents.

- Edric A.

SARAH SIEBOLD

Los Angeles, California

SARAH SIEBOLD

9 years of experience
Accepts insurance

IMMA (pronounced "ee-ma") means “mother” in Hebrew. It’s the reminder that we are all part of the parenthood collective, no matter how we feed our children. We are here to support you on your feeding journey with compassion and a deep commitment to lactation science. Our mission is simple: to help both baby and parent thrive together. We provide support, not judgment, because we believe you know what's best for your body and your family. Think of us as your “breast friends”—here to share knowledge with kindness. We strike a balance between clinical expertise and personal connection, always meeting families where they are. Sometimes, we have to deliver hard truths that might not match what you imagined, but our approach is always rooted in respect and the understanding that every family’s journey is unique. We recognize that new parenthood, while sacred and miraculous, often isn't treated that way in today's fast-paced world. Many parents don’t get the time off to truly bond with their newborns, but our consults focus on providing you with the knowledge and confidence you need. We’re here to help you understand what it really means to feed and care for your baby. IMMA is also here for the journey beyond those first few months. From introducing solids to managing milk production after returning to work, navigating weaning, or even offering breastmilk to toddlers—we’ve seen it all, and we’re here for you every step of the way. We got you.

Tina Montalto

Los Angeles, California

Tina Montalto

3 years of experience
Accepts insurance
Packages from $300

Tina Montalto, IBCLC, LMT, CST Tina Montalto is an Internationally Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) and licensed massage therapist dedicated to supporting families through all stages of the infant feeding journey. With over a decade of experience in the mother-baby field, she provides comprehensive lactation care through her private practice, offering both in-home and telehealth consultations tailored to the unique needs of each family. Tina completed her lactation training at the University of California, San Diego and holds massage therapy certification from the National Holistic Institute. She brings a unique, integrative approach to her work by combining clinical lactation expertise with therapeutic bodywork—particularly for prenatal, postpartum, and infant clients. She is also certified in manual lymphatic drainage through Klose Training, providing additional support for postnatal healing and wellness. Her professional background includes pediatric hospice training with The Heart Touch Project and volunteer service at UCLA Ronald Reagan Medical Center, where she offered palliative care massage for NICU AND PICU patients. Tina currently runs a private practice called Piena Lactation and Wellness, LLC, offering Lactation/infant feeding services and Massage therapy in the comfort of your own home. With a deep commitment to nurturing both physical and emotional health, Tina empowers families with the guidance and support they need to thrive.

Joanne Gomez BSN, RN, CD, CCE, CLE

Los Angeles, California

5.0 (4 reviews)

Joanne Gomez BSN, RN, CD, CCE, CLE

27 years of experience
Accepts insurance

Hello! I am the owner and nursing director of Peaceful Passages Birthing Support Center. I am an experienced Labor and Delivery RN and Certified Doula of 25 years. Our office serves both Northern and Southern CA. We offer a vast array of services, including, maternity concierge services , birth and postpartum doula services, Montrice services, Lamaze classes, Lactation support, placenta encapsulation, belly casting, mother blessing ceremonies, and cord burning ceremonies. We accept most insurance plans, including Medi Cal and Kaiser. We look forward to being a part of your empowering birth experience and journey!

Recent review

Hiring an overnight doula from Peaceful Passages was one of the best decisions I made for my postpartum recovery. Not only did my doula lovingly care for me and my newborn, she went above and beyond—prepping nourishing meals, providing breastfeeding support, organizing the baby’s nursery, and even helping with my twin toddlers so I could rest. Her calm, professional presence made my healing after a c-section so much easier. I was especially impressed by how seamless everything was—she was professionally dressed, compassionate, and incredibly knowledgeable. On top of that, Peaceful Passages accepted my Carrot insurance and handled all the billing with ease, which lifted such a burden off my shoulders. This service was truly a lifesaver for me and my family. I felt cared for, supported, and able to focus on bonding with my baby. I can’t recommend their overnight doula services enough!

- Bri L.

Josée Pound

Pasadena, California

5.0 (52 reviews)

Josée Pound

12 years of experience
Accepts insurance
Packages from $300

Josée (pronounced Joe-say) is an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) providing compassionate, evidence-based breastfeeding support for families in Pasadena and throughout the Los Angeles area. Josée’s passion for supporting families began while living abroad in Ghana and Haiti, where she worked in several community health clinics and developed a deep appreciation for maternal and infant health across diverse cultural settings. These experiences shaped her commitment to providing inclusive, respectful, and individualized care for every family she works with. After returning to Canada, Josée completed a Bachelor’s degree in International Development at the University of Guelph before pursuing advanced training in lactation and infant feeding. In 2015, she graduated from the Lactation Medicine Program at the Jack Newman International Breastfeeding Centre in Toronto, one of the leading breastfeeding education programs in North America. In 2017, Josée became an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) after completing extensive clinical training in human lactation and passing the IBLCE certification exam. The IBCLC credential is the international gold standard for lactation care, requiring rigorous education, clinical experience, and ongoing professional development. Josée’s approach to lactation care is grounded in evidence-based practice, compassion, and inclusivity. She believes every family’s feeding journey is unique and strives to meet parents exactly where they are—whether they are navigating painful breastfeeding, concerns about milk supply, newborn feeding patterns, pumping, or simply looking for reassurance during the early weeks with a new baby. Her goal is to create a supportive and non-judgmental space where families feel heard, respected, and empowered to make informed decisions that work best for them and their baby. Josée currently runs a private lactation practice in Los Angeles and lives in Pasadena with her husband and son. She provides breastfeeding support for families throughout the surrounding communities, including: • Pasadena • Eagle Rock • Highland Park • Glendale • Burbank • Alhambra • Hollywood • Downtown Los Angeles

Recent review

We just made it to a full year of breastfeeding, and I truly don’t think we would have made it without Josée's help in those early days. She was so calm, kind, and reassuring during a time that felt overwhelming and emotional. Breastfeeding was feeling so complicated, but she helped us come up with a simple, realistic game plan that worked for our family. Her relaxed approach gave me so much confidence in my body, and I am incredibly grateful for her support. I recommend her to every new parent I know!

- Emma Claffy

Brianna Joy

Solana Beach, California

5.0 (22 reviews)

Brianna Joy

6 years of experience
Accepts insurance

Brianna, originally from Las Vegas, NV, embarked on her educational journey towards becoming a midwife when she moved to Santa Barbara in 2015. There she studied and earned her BS in Psychology. In 2017, she attended a DONA doula training, a pivotal step in her commitment to supporting women during labor. As a student, Brianna volunteered at a local maternity home, offering prenatal nutrition classes and doula services. In 2019, she expanded her impact by volunteering with AmeriCorps as a Community Health Worker in Southern Utah, addressing social determinants of health. This experience underscored the strength of community and the importance of continuity of care. After completing her 12-month term, Brianna moved to San Diego to attend Midwifery school and commenced her clinical placement with San Diego Midwife in 2020. As a midwife, Brianna blends her foundation in psychology with specialized midwifery training, emphasizing a compassionate and empathetic approach. Her dedication extends to providing holistic care throughout the prenatal, labor, and postpartum phases, emphasizing both the physical and emotional well-being of mothers. Brianna is ardent about empowering women and ensuring that each birthing experience is a medically sound and emotionally enriching journey. In 2025, Brianna expanded her scope of care by becoming an Internationally Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC), deepening her commitment to supporting families in the critical postpartum period. Outside of midwifery, Brianna finds joy in traveling to Mexico and exploring new destinations, often connecting with local midwives and birth workers. She has found herself grounded living in Cardiff enjoying beach days, practicing yoga, and hiking with her dog, Itzli.

Recent review

Brianna has been incredibly helpful in my journey to feeding my child. From breast-feeding, to proper latch, to weight gain, to finding and changing formulas, then fully weaning my child… She has been there alongside me, helping me be the best version of myself. She has the most kind and supportive demeanor. Although I started off feeling a lot of frustration on my feeding journey because I couldn’t breast feed how I wanted, I’ve only ever felt my baby and I were supportsd loved and cared for by Brianna. Ultimately we developed the perfect latch for my son and the perfect milk supply. I never got mastitis once even while I was weaning him and drying up milk. I’m so grateful I had Brianna to help me navigate my feeding journey because it went so smoothly! I also used her night nanny services and she and her team were outstanding in supporting me a few days a week to give me a little time to myself and give me tips and tricks for navigating the newborn stage at night! Thank you so much Brianna, I’m a better version of myself because of your support!

- dawn moore

Rachel Meakins

Manhattan Beach, California

5.0 (1 review)

Rachel Meakins

15 years of experience
Accepts insurance
Packages from $250 · $80/hr

Rachel Meakins is a doula, lactation counselor, childbirth educator, newborn care specialist, and maternal health advocate based in Los Angeles. Through her practice, Zenbari, she supports women and families through pregnancy, birth, postpartum, and the transition into modern motherhood with a calm, highly personalized approach. With a background spanning pre-med studies, psychology, public relations, maternal health coaching, and perinatal education, Rachel brings both emotional depth and practical systems-thinking into her work. She is known for helping families feel informed, steady, and genuinely supported — not only during birth, but throughout the massive physical, relational, and identity shifts that come with becoming a parent. Her care combines evidence-based education with intuitive, real-life support. Clients often work with Rachel for guidance around birth preparation, feeding, newborn care, postpartum recovery, household dynamics, partner communication, and creating sustainable systems that allow mothers to feel more resourced and less overwhelmed during the early months. In addition to her private client work, Rachel works in maternal health education and community advocacy, serves as a Fair Play facilitator, and is a health coach focused on the vaginal microbiome and women’s health across fertility, pregnancy, and postpartum. Her philosophy is that mothers deserve thoughtful, coordinated care that considers the full picture — not just the baby, but the woman, her relationships, her recovery, her nervous system, and the life she is returning to afterward.

Recent review

Rachel was knowledgeable and guided us through everything

- Jason E.

Aysha-Samon Stokes

Los Angeles, California

5.0 (4 reviews)

Aysha-Samon Stokes

3 years of experience
Accepts insurance
Packages from $1,200

Birth & Postpartum Doula I have been supporting families through pregnancy, birth, and postpartum since long before I had the language for it formally serving as a doula since 2021, but showing up for birthing people in my community for years before that. Birth work found me through my own pregnancies (c-section) unmedicated V back and unmedicated water birth vbac mama my background in education. As a former preschool and kindergarten teacher, I’ve always been drawn to caring for the whole child and family. Each of my births deepened my commitment to this work, and I’m passionate about supporting women who look like me in spaces where we are often the only ones. I’m a super big supporter of Vbacs They are my favorite. I currently work with Kindred Space LA, Frontline Doulas, and the Irth App, supporting families through birth, postpartum, belly binding, and babywearing. An avid breastfeeder myself nursing each of my children for 3 years I bring lived experience and practical support to feeding journeys. My practice centers education, cultural affirmation, and hands on care.

Recent review

Aysha SHOWED UP for me! I’m honestly not sure how my birth would have gone without her support! We laughed. We walked. We squatted. We twerked. I cried. She held me. Reminded me that i was capable. Postpartum was rough this go round and she was there, prepping meals, cleaning, teaching my toddler essential life skills, making sure she saw me drinking my water and taking my vitamins. She feels like a best friend I’ve known for many years. I’m so grateful and i can’t say it enough💗

- Niambi W.

Lana Mihaiyu

Los Angeles, California

5.0 (6 reviews)

Lana Mihaiyu

4 years of experience
Accepts insurance

👋🏽 I'm a board-certified lactation consultant (IBCLC), certified perinatal mental health provider (PMH-C), and native Angeleno. I'm also a mom of two. I'm passionate about providing thoughtful, comprehensive infant feeding education and clinical care to new and expecting parents. From practical prenatal guidance to gentle weaning strategies, and everything in between. My approach to lactation care is culturally responsive and holistic, with a focus on co-regulation, bodywork, and mental health. I offer in-home lactation support in LA or virtual visits. I'm in-network with most Aetna, Anthem, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, HealthNet and United Healthcare plans. 📍Serving: Baldwin Hills, Culver City, El Segundo, Gardena, Hermosa Beach, Inglewood, Ladera Heights, Lawndale, Manhattan Beach, Marina Del Rey, Mar Vista, Playa Del Rey, Playa Vista, Santa Monica, Torrance, Venice, View Park, Westchester, West Adams... 📣 Reach out for more info, to verify insurance coverage, or discuss self-pay options.

Recent review

I found Lana through my insurance when my daughter and I were struggling with breastfeeding, and I truly wish I had connected with her sooner! Working with her has completely transformed my breastfeeding experience. She is incredibly knowledgeable and provided clear, thoughtful guidance that helped us address our challenges and see real improvement. Her combination of virtual and in-home visits is so convenient. I’m very grateful for her support and can’t recommend her enough!

- Cassandra Reynoso

Find a Lactation Consultant Near Me in Rancho Santa Margarita, CA

Illustration of a parent matched with a provider on care topics like breastfeeding and baby sleep

Explore lactation consultants in Rancho Santa Margarita, CA