CLC Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield CLC facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. Which of the following describes a key characteristic of an asymmetrical latch? → More of the areola is visible above the baby's top lip than below the bottom lip.
2. Within the CLC scope of practice, which of the following actions is appropriate when supporting a breastfeeding dyad? → Developing an individualized, evidence-based feeding plan with the mother.
3. When a mother is using a breast pump at work, which environmental factor most significantly impacts milk output? → Stress and lack of privacy reducing oxytocin release
4. When documenting lactation support in a hospital medical record, which approach is most appropriate? → Use objective, observable clinical terms and record mother-infant feeding behaviors
5. Which of the following is a clear indicator of effective milk transfer and a good latch? → The baby's cheeks are rounded and there is an audible swallowing pattern.
6. Which US federal law requires employers to provide reasonable break time and a private space for nursing employees to express breast milk? → PUMP for Nursing Mothers Act
7. When storing breast milk in a deep freezer at 0°F (-18°C), the recommended maximum storage time is: → 12 months
8. What stage of lactogenesis begins after the delivery of the placenta? → Lactogenesis II
9. Cultural humility in lactation counseling involves: → Self‑reflection and respectful inquiry about beliefs
10. What is the minimum number of wet diapers typically expected by day 5 postpartum? → 6 per day
11. Which social determinant of health most directly contributes to breastfeeding disparities in low-income communities? → Lack of access to lactation support services and paid maternity leave
12. When assessing latch, which sign suggests an effective latch? → Infant’s lips flanged outward on the breast
13. What marks the beginning of lactogenesis I? → Second trimester
14. Which Healthy People 2030 breastfeeding objective sets a target for the percentage of infants ever breastfed? → 81.9%
15. Which breastfeeding position often provides extra support for infants with low muscle tone? → Football hold
16. Which of the following is the MOST reliable indicator that a one-week-old, exclusively breastfed infant is getting enough milk? → The infant has at least six wet diapers and several yellow, seedy stools per day.
17. The International Code of Marketing of Breast-milk Substitutes (WHO Code) primarily restricts: → Marketing of formula and bottle feeding products to the general public and health systems
18. What does the term 'engorgement' refer to in breastfeeding? → Overfilling of the breasts with milk causing swelling, hardness, and pain
19. Which approach helps prevent a CLC from imposing her own cultural values onto clients from different backgrounds? → Engaging in regular self-reflection about personal biases and assumptions
20. Which is an **open‑ended** question appropriate for assessing breastfeeding challenges? → "Can you describe what feeding has been like for you so far?"
21. When setting feeding goals, which method ensures they are clear and achievable? → SMART framework
22. Which US law prohibits discrimination against breastfeeding in federal buildings and on federal property? → Fairness for Breastfeeding Mothers Act (2019)
23. Under HIPAA, a CLC sharing a breastfeeding patient's information with the patient's employer requires: → Written patient authorization
24. A CLC notices a formula company representative is distributing free formula samples on the postpartum unit. The most appropriate action is to: → Report the violation to hospital administration and the unit manager
25. A mother using a personal electric breast pump reports decreased output after 3 months of use. The CLC's first recommendation should be to: → Check and replace the pump membranes and valves, as these wear out with regular use
26. Which maternal nipple type may require additional latch assistance? → Inverted nipple
27. What is the recommended pumping frequency for a mother exclusively pumping to establish full milk supply in the first weeks postpartum? → 8–12 times per 24 hours
28. A lactation counselor employed in a WIC clinic is primarily guided by which federal nutrition program's breastfeeding support mandate? → Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)
29. Which hormone stimulates milk production? → Prolactin
30. A mother reports that her refrigerated breast milk has a soapy or rancid smell after several days. This is most likely due to: → Excess lipase activity breaking down milk fats