Northwest AHEC
Course Number: 76580
14th Annual Breastfeeding Forum
Mar 10, 2026 - 08:45 AM EDT to 03:15 PM EDT
Michelle Adams
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Event Description: This one-day conference will focus on techniques to assist individuals with breastfeeding, and update care providers on breastfeeding techniques and tips to ensure a successful breastfeeding experience.
Hotel:
A block of rooms has been reserved at the Hickory Courtyard Marriot just steps from the convention center for a discounted rate of $159+tax for the night. Click here to book online or call 828-267-2100 to reserve your room. Book by February 23 to enjoy the discounted rate.
Objectives
Describe the purpose of Baby Cafes as a community-based breastfeeding support centers.
Identify key strategies for engaging families and promoting sustained breastfeeding success.
Identify the effects of common substances on lactation and infant health, and evaluate evidence-based guidelines for safe breastfeeding practices in the context of maternal substance use.
Discuss strategies for supporting breastfeeding mothers who use substances, including harm reduction approaches, referral resources, and culturally sensitive counseling techniques to promote infant safety and maternal well-being.
Identify common psychological, behavioral, and emotional warning signs of perinatal mental health disorders, including postpartum depression, anxiety, and psychosis, to support early detection and intervention.
Apply evidence-based screening tools and referral strategies to appropriately respond to red flags in perinatal mental health and connect individuals to timely, supportive care.
Identify early clinical signs of infants with Neonatal Opioid Withdrawal Syndrome. (NOWS).
Describe evidence-based care strategies for managing infants diagnosed with NOWS in breastfeeding contexts.
Describe characteristics of breast pumps on the market.
Assist a parent in selecting the best breast pump for their situation.
Available Credits
Audience
This program targets lactation consultants, WIC staff members, registered dietitians, health educators, peer counselors, nurses, social workers, childbirth educators and others who assist families with breastfeeding.
Speakers
Michelle E Allen, BS
Michelle M Barrett, MSN, PMHNP-BC, PMH-C, CLE
Georganna Cogburn, MS, RD, LDN, IBCLC, RLC
Anna Gerhardt, BSN, RN, MSW
Penelope S Hedrick, ADN, RN, IBCLC
Oksana Kasko, BSN
Christian Kaufman, AGPCNP, WHNP
Lisa Miller, D.HSc, IBCLC
Nancy Prothero, CNM, PMHNP
