Topics & Abstracts

Most guidelines in industrialized countries recommend formula feeding when a mother is HIV+, however it is recommended that individuals receive patient-centered counseling on infant feeding options. The WHO recommends that HIV-positive mothers breastfeed exclusively for six months and continue to nurse, along with solid food, for up to two years or more. Accumulating research has shown that the risk of HIV transmission through breastfeeding is less than 1% when the lactating parent with HIV is on antiretroviral treatment (ART) and has an undetectable viral load. The research includes studies on transmission rates, infant health, and counseling. Learn more about the insights from the latest research and what it tells us about current best practice for supporting breastfeeding for women who are HIV+.

Objectives:

1. Describe the updated guidance on feeding options for babies born to HIV+ mothers including recent American Academy of Pediatrics 2024 and worldwide recommendations.
2. Describe how to support people with HIV who want to breastfeed and identify potential challenges that may arise during breastfeeding of an infant born from an HIV+ mother.
3. Summarize the standard of care for HIV+ mothers and their babies to prevent vertical transmission during breastfeeding.

Live Presentation Schedule Apr 21, 2026

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21-04-2026 17:00 21-04-2026 18:00 35 A Paradigm Shift for Breastfeeding with HIV: Aligning Practice with Emerging Evidence Most guidelines in industrialized countries recommend formula feeding when a mother is HIV+, however it is recommended that individuals receive patient-centered counseling on infant feeding options. The WHO recommends that HIV-positive mothers breastfeed exclusively for six months and continue to nurse, along with solid food, for up to two years or more. Accumulating research has shown that the risk of HIV transmission through breastfeeding is less than 1% when the lactating parent with HIV is on antiretroviral treatment (ART) and has an undetectable viral load. The research includes studies on transmission rates, infant health, and counseling. Learn more about the insights from the latest research and what it tells us about current best practice for supporting breastfeeding for women who are HIV+. " GOLD Lactation Online Conference false DD/MM/YYYY

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With modernization, aesthetic breast surgeries are on the increase even in developing countries. Hence, lactation professionals are more & more likely to counsel these mothers in addition to mothers who have undergone non-aesthetic breast surgeries (e.g. for breast abscess, malignancy etc.). Breast surgery raises concerns about breastfeeding due to severed ductssevered nerves Breast tissue removal or the indication for which surgery was done (e.g. less glandular tissue prompting an implant). Good knowledge of Breast Structure (especially nerve supply) and its applied component is essential to understand breastfeeding concerns & the optimal surgical method that preserves breastfeeding. Natural healing & anastomosis of severed ducts & nerves is an interesting phenomenon. Individual discussion of each surgical type including Oncolactation is warranted to understand basics, concerns specific to procedure and lessons from literature review. Discussion of Practical concerns for breastfeeding counselling & management of these mothers will be valuable to a breastfeeding professional who will also have to keep abreast with new surgical techniques & procedures along with desired modifications in help required by mothers.

Objectives:

1. Describe why knowledge of breast surgery is important for lactation professionals. 2. List at least 3 ways different surgical procedures can impact lactation. 3. Explain the innervation of the breast and how this relates to different surgical procedures and procedural optimization for lactation.  4. Describe the impact of different types of surgery on lactation 5. List practical considerations for the lactation professional providing support to a mother with a history of breast surgery.

Live Presentation Schedule Apr 8, 2026

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08-04-2026 15:00 08-04-2026 16:00 35 Breast Surgery and Breastfeeding: Implications for Lactation Professionals With modernization, aesthetic breast surgeries are on the increase even in developing countries. Hence, lactation professionals are more & more likely to counsel these mothers in addition to mothers who have undergone non-aesthetic breast surgeries (e.g. for breast abscess, malignancy etc.). Breast surgery raises concerns about breastfeeding due to severed ductssevered nerves Breast tissue removal or the indication for which surgery was done (e.g. less glandular tissue prompting an implant). Good knowledge of Breast Structure (especially nerve supply) and its applied component is essential to understand breastfeeding concerns & the optimal surgical method that preserves breastfeeding. Natural healing & anastomosis of severed ducts & nerves is an interesting phenomenon. Individual discussion of each surgical type including Oncolactation is warranted to understand basics, concerns specific to procedure and lessons from literature review. Discussion of Practical concerns for breastfeeding counselling & management of these mothers will be valuable to a breastfeeding professional who will also have to keep abreast with new surgical techniques & procedures along with desired modifications in help required by mothers. GOLD Lactation Online Conference false DD/MM/YYYY

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When a breastfeeding mother uses any form of medication, the ingredients can pass to her infant through her breastmilk. Even if the medication is entirely safe for an adult, there may be harmful consequences for an infant. The use of a nonprescription or over-the counter (OTC) medication does not require professional approval. Individual consumers usually make their own decisions about using nonprescription medications or other commonly available health and recreation products. Choosing a medication or other product, especially while breastfeeding, is not as simple as it seems. The labels for OTC products, though vitally important, do not tell you if a medication is safe for breastfeeding. It can be all too easy to unintentionally use something harmful.

The use of nonprescription or over-the-counter medications by breastfeeding mothers is more common than the use of prescription drugs. The sale and use of these products is a $37 billion industry. Nine out of every ten Americans use OTC medications regularly, which equals over 260 million users. This presentation will provide basic guidelines that can help breastfeeding parents determine which nonprescription products are safe to use. The information covered provides simple, clear answers to help breastfeeding families choose safe and effective products for every health need.

Objectives:

1. Explain how to counsel breastfeeding families on commonly used Over-The-Counter (OTC) products, herbals, dietary products, and social drugs. 2. Describe tools and techniques for evaluating nonprescription drugs and everyday products use during breastfeeding. 3. List nonprescription drugs and everyday products that are compatible with breastfeeding.

Live Presentation Schedule Apr 7, 2026

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07-04-2026 21:00 07-04-2026 22:00 35 Breastfeeding Guidelines For Nonprescription Drugs And Everyday Products When a breastfeeding mother uses any form of medication, the ingredients can pass to her infant through her breastmilk. Even if the medication is entirely safe for an adult, there may be harmful consequences for an infant. The use of a nonprescription or over-the counter (OTC) medication does not require professional approval. Individual consumers usually make their own decisions about using nonprescription medications or other commonly available health and recreation products. Choosing a medication or other product, especially while breastfeeding, is not as simple as it seems. The labels for OTC products, though vitally important, do not tell you if a medication is safe for breastfeeding. It can be all too easy to unintentionally use something harmful. The use of nonprescription or over-the-counter medications by breastfeeding mothers is more common than the use of prescription drugs. The sale and use of these products is a $37 billion industry. Nine out of every ten Americans use OTC medications regularly, which equals over 260 million users. This presentation will provide basic guidelines that can help breastfeeding parents determine which nonprescription products are safe to use. The information covered provides simple, clear answers to help breastfeeding families choose safe and effective products for every health need. GOLD Lactation Online Conference false DD/MM/YYYY

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Observe a baby in their parent’s arms and see how they use the parent's body in their communication—to tell about what they need. This talk dives into the physiological mechanisms and communication aspects through which babywearing supports lactation and maternal-infant bonding. It also explores the relationship between babywearing and breastfeeding duration.
Additionally, the talk will address the crucial topic of babywearing safety, particularly when combined with breastfeeding. While proximity promotes oxytocin release and maternal responsiveness, ensuring airway safety and ergonomic positioning is essential, especially in the early postpartum period. The presentation will offer practical insights into how professionals can guide parents to use babywearing as a safe and effective support for breastfeeding.

Objectives:

1. Describe the physiological mechanisms and communication aspects through which babywearing supports lactation and maternal-infant bonding.
2. Explain the relationship between babywearing and breastfeeding duration based on recent scientific evidence.
3. Explain why babywearing safety with breastfeeding matters, including key principles for safe practice and risk reduction.

Live Presentation Schedule Apr 14, 2026

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14-04-2026 15:00 14-04-2026 16:00 35 Carry Me Close – Breastfeeding and Babywearing Observe a baby in their parent’s arms and see how they use the parent's body in their communication—to tell about what they need. This talk dives into the physiological mechanisms and communication aspects through which babywearing supports lactation and maternal-infant bonding. It also explores the relationship between babywearing and breastfeeding duration. Additionally, the talk will address the crucial topic of babywearing safety, particularly when combined with breastfeeding. While proximity promotes oxytocin release and maternal responsiveness, ensuring airway safety and ergonomic positioning is essential, especially in the early postpartum period. The presentation will offer practical insights into how professionals can guide parents to use babywearing as a safe and effective support for breastfeeding. GOLD Lactation Online Conference false DD/MM/YYYY

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Auditory processing plays a powerful role in the feeding relationship. As our sense of hearing begins in utero, it offers some of the first opportunities for early parent/child connection. Auditory processing is connected to our senses of taste, touch, vision and movement and can be utilized therapeutically to have positive effects on breast/chest feeding outcomes. From the hormonal connections to the sounds of feeding, the auditory system is a little-known secret to supporting the well-being of parents and infants. Please join me in this interactive exploration of the auditory system.

Objectives:

1. Describe the development and neurological pathways of the auditory system.
2. Explain how the auditory processing system interacts with other sensory systems to influence feeding outcomes for parents and infants.
3. List two ways to use auditory processing strategies to support the breast/chest feeding dyad.

Live Presentation Schedule Apr 28, 2026

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28-04-2026 17:00 28-04-2026 18:00 35 Do You Hear What I Hear? Auditory Processing in the Feeding Relationship Auditory processing plays a powerful role in the feeding relationship. As our sense of hearing begins in utero, it offers some of the first opportunities for early parent/child connection. Auditory processing is connected to our senses of taste, touch, vision and movement and can be utilized therapeutically to have positive effects on breast/chest feeding outcomes. From the hormonal connections to the sounds of feeding, the auditory system is a little-known secret to supporting the well-being of parents and infants. Please join me in this interactive exploration of the auditory system. GOLD Lactation Online Conference false DD/MM/YYYY

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Whether or not you're currently using AI or tech tools in your lactation practice, your clients probably are. From smart pumps and breastfeeding apps to AI-driven lactation advice, new technologies are hitting the market at an unprecedented pace. As a care provider, it's no longer optional to stay informed. Being knowledgeable about the latest technology isn't just about keeping up, it's about protecting your clients, supporting informed decision-making, and ensuring ethical, evidence-based care in a rapidly changing world. In this engaging session, our expert panel will discuss the latest technologies, explore their real-world applications and implications, and provide guidance for their ethical use.

Objectives:

1. List three lactation-assistive tools or technologies which are currently being marketed to both breastfeeding parents and lactation professionals. 2. Explain the potential positive and negative ways that lactation-assistive products might impact the breastfeeding dyad. 3. Describe ways that AI can be used to help the care provider and how to ensure they are being used in an ethical manner.

Live Presentation Schedule Apr 22, 2026

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22-04-2026 05:00 22-04-2026 18:00 35 Don’t Get Left Behind: Navigating AI and Tech in Lactation Care Whether or not you're currently using AI or tech tools in your lactation practice, your clients probably are. From smart pumps and breastfeeding apps to AI-driven lactation advice, new technologies are hitting the market at an unprecedented pace. As a care provider, it's no longer optional to stay informed. Being knowledgeable about the latest technology isn't just about keeping up, it's about protecting your clients, supporting informed decision-making, and ensuring ethical, evidence-based care in a rapidly changing world. In this engaging session, our expert panel will discuss the latest technologies, explore their real-world applications and implications, and provide guidance for their ethical use. GOLD Lactation Online Conference false DD/MM/YYYY

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They’ve got a ring light, a discount code, and absolutely no qualifications. Welcome to the algorithm-driven circus of influencer parenting—where misinformation goes viral, bottle deals get more airtime than public health, and the quiet, messy reality of breastfeeding is filtered beyond recognition. In this no-holds-barred session, we take a critical look at how influencer culture is reshaping parenting norms and undermining breastfeeding support. From cherry-picked journeys and aesthetic overshares to sponsored content pushing formula, bottles, and breast pumps, influencers are being treated as experts—and families are paying the price.
We’ll explore how wealth and privilege allow some influencers to access high-quality lactation care—only to ignore it or exploit it for brand deals. We’ll examine how media illiteracy leaves followers unable to separate evidence-based guidance from curated content. Crucially, we’ll highlight how commercial interests use influencers to circumvent the WHO Code, pushing marketing through back doors disguised as personal stories.
This is a call for critical thinking, better boundaries, and a media-savvy approach to lactation support in a world that’s drowning in sponsored noise.

Objectives:

1. Explain how influencer culture distorts public understanding of breastfeeding and parenting by blending personal storytelling with commercial marketing.
2. Describe how wealth, privilege, and algorithm-driven visibility shape access to lactation support and influence the portrayal of infant feeding online.
3. Explain how to apply principles of media literacy and ethical practice to evaluate influencer content, including recognition of WHO Code violations and their implications for public health messaging.

Live Presentation Schedule Apr 13, 2026

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13-04-2026 13:00 13-04-2026 14:00 35 Fake Followers, Real Damage: The Rise of Influencers and the Warped World of Breastfeeding Advice They’ve got a ring light, a discount code, and absolutely no qualifications. Welcome to the algorithm-driven circus of influencer parenting—where misinformation goes viral, bottle deals get more airtime than public health, and the quiet, messy reality of breastfeeding is filtered beyond recognition. In this no-holds-barred session, we take a critical look at how influencer culture is reshaping parenting norms and undermining breastfeeding support. From cherry-picked journeys and aesthetic overshares to sponsored content pushing formula, bottles, and breast pumps, influencers are being treated as experts—and families are paying the price. We’ll explore how wealth and privilege allow some influencers to access high-quality lactation care—only to ignore it or exploit it for brand deals. We’ll examine how media illiteracy leaves followers unable to separate evidence-based guidance from curated content. Crucially, we’ll highlight how commercial interests use influencers to circumvent the WHO Code, pushing marketing through back doors disguised as personal stories. This is a call for critical thinking, better boundaries, and a media-savvy approach to lactation support in a world that’s drowning in sponsored noise. GOLD Lactation Online Conference false DD/MM/YYYY

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Breastfeeding is far more than a means of nutrition—it is a biologically orchestrated, emotionally charged process that supports the infant’s neuromotor development, orofacial growth, and emerging sense of safety. This presentation explores how direct breastfeeding activates and integrates primitive oral reflexes—such as the suck-swallow-breathe synchrony—and facilitates the transition from brainstem-driven patterns to mature, cortically mediated oral motor function.

This presentation highlights the central role of the vagus nerve in this process, showing how direct breastfeeding uniquely stimulates parasympathetic activity, promoting emotional regulation and co-regulation within the mother-infant dyad. Disruptions in reflex integration or vagal tone—often linked to conditions like tongue-tie or ineffective latch—can contribute to feeding challenges, infant distress, and interrupted bonding. By emphasizing the neurobiology of attachment, this session underscores the irreplaceable value of direct breastfeeding in shaping not only oral function but also the psychological bond and long-term health outcomes for both infant and mother. Attendees will leave with evidence-based insights and practical strategies to support the maturation of oral motor pathways, optimize feeding, and foster deeper relational attunement in early life care.

Objectives:

1. .Describe the developmental role of primitive oral reflexes (e.g., rooting, sucking, swallowing) and their integration in the transition to mature oral motor function. 2. Explain the connection between direct breastfeeding, vagal tone activation, and the regulation of infant emotional and physiological states. 3. Apply evidence-based clinical strategies to support infants with disrupted reflex integration, feeding difficulties, or compromised maternal-infant bonding.

Live Presentation Schedule Apr 8, 2026

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08-04-2026 13:00 08-04-2026 14:00 35 Feeding with Feeling: How Breastfeeding Shapes Reflexes, Regulation, and the Neurobiology of Maternal-Infant Attachment Breastfeeding is far more than a means of nutrition—it is a biologically orchestrated, emotionally charged process that supports the infant’s neuromotor development, orofacial growth, and emerging sense of safety. This presentation explores how direct breastfeeding activates and integrates primitive oral reflexes—such as the suck-swallow-breathe synchrony—and facilitates the transition from brainstem-driven patterns to mature, cortically mediated oral motor function. This presentation highlights the central role of the vagus nerve in this process, showing how direct breastfeeding uniquely stimulates parasympathetic activity, promoting emotional regulation and co-regulation within the mother-infant dyad. Disruptions in reflex integration or vagal tone—often linked to conditions like tongue-tie or ineffective latch—can contribute to feeding challenges, infant distress, and interrupted bonding. By emphasizing the neurobiology of attachment, this session underscores the irreplaceable value of direct breastfeeding in shaping not only oral function but also the psychological bond and long-term health outcomes for both infant and mother. Attendees will leave with evidence-based insights and practical strategies to support the maturation of oral motor pathways, optimize feeding, and foster deeper relational attunement in early life care. GOLD Lactation Online Conference false DD/MM/YYYY

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This presentation will introduce Hand Expression and other Gentle Manual Therapeutic Techniques in Lactation as clinical skills that are essential for every lactation professional. These techniques can be used as assessment and treatment tools. Teaching these manual techniques to parents will support and empower them to deal with pain and discomfort of engorgement, plugged ducts and mastitis. These techniques will be useful in managing oversupply or working on increasing milk production. They can be helpful in dealing with breast discomfort in case of emergency weaning. The techniques described provide a simple, readily accessible method that can be easily taught to parents and health professionals.

Objectives:

1. Describe the role of therapeutic touch in traditional cultures and discuss the latest research on the role of manual techniques in management of acute breast pain and increasing milk supply. 2. Demonstrate how lactation consultants and health professionals can educate mothers and families on managing engorgement, plugged ducts and mastitis at home. 3. Describe how self-management of acute breast pain can empower parents. 4. Explain hand expression variations and describe how to help parents to choose what will work for them.

Live Presentation Schedule Apr 21, 2026

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21-04-2026 19:00 21-04-2026 20:00 35 Hand Expression is Not One Size Fits All Technique This presentation will introduce Hand Expression and other Gentle Manual Therapeutic Techniques in Lactation as clinical skills that are essential for every lactation professional. These techniques can be used as assessment and treatment tools. Teaching these manual techniques to parents will support and empower them to deal with pain and discomfort of engorgement, plugged ducts and mastitis. These techniques will be useful in managing oversupply or working on increasing milk production. They can be helpful in dealing with breast discomfort in case of emergency weaning. The techniques described provide a simple, readily accessible method that can be easily taught to parents and health professionals. GOLD Lactation Online Conference false DD/MM/YYYY

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Where does data support breastfeeding parents, and where might it undermine them? Milk tracking apps are a popular tool among modern mothers, offering a sense of control and reassurance in a culture where measurable outcomes are often prioritised over intuition. Within the infant feeding support community, important questions have emerged: are these tools helpful, harmful, or both? This presentation explores the nuanced role of tracking apps in the early parenting experience, particularly for neurodivergent mothers and those vulnerable to anxiety and rumination. For some, tracking provides structure and emotional regulation. For others, it may amplify doubt, over-focus attention on quantifiable outcomes, and create disconnection from the body and baby.

Drawing on current research and lived experience, we will examine both the perceived benefits and unintended consequences of data-driven feeding. Attendees will be invited to consider how to support parents who feel dependent on tracking while gently promoting embodied confidence and intuitive care. As life becomes increasingly quantified, this session explores how feeding support can strike a balance between the digital and the deeply human.

Objectives:

1. Describe common features and intended benefits of milk tracking apps in the early postpartum period. 2. List potential psychological risks and unintended consequences of data-focused feeding. 3. Apply practical strategies to support tracking-dependent parents while promoting confidence and intuitive care.

Live Presentation Schedule Apr 14, 2026

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14-04-2026 17:00 14-04-2026 18:00 35 Helpful or Harmful? Milk Tracking Apps and Their Impact on Parental Wellbeing Where does data support breastfeeding parents, and where might it undermine them? Milk tracking apps are a popular tool among modern mothers, offering a sense of control and reassurance in a culture where measurable outcomes are often prioritised over intuition. Within the infant feeding support community, important questions have emerged: are these tools helpful, harmful, or both? This presentation explores the nuanced role of tracking apps in the early parenting experience, particularly for neurodivergent mothers and those vulnerable to anxiety and rumination. For some, tracking provides structure and emotional regulation. For others, it may amplify doubt, over-focus attention on quantifiable outcomes, and create disconnection from the body and baby. Drawing on current research and lived experience, we will examine both the perceived benefits and unintended consequences of data-driven feeding. Attendees will be invited to consider how to support parents who feel dependent on tracking while gently promoting embodied confidence and intuitive care. As life becomes increasingly quantified, this session explores how feeding support can strike a balance between the digital and the deeply human. GOLD Lactation Online Conference false DD/MM/YYYY

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Insufficient milk (real or perceived) is a major reason for formula supplementation and the abandonment of breastfeeding. Much of this issue can be attributed to mismanagement of early breastfeeding or a slow start due to multiple factors such as birth interventions, maternal diabetes and/or obesity, breast anomalies, and infants factors that preclude appropriate milk transfer. Interventions depend on the etiology of the cause and range from simply more breastfeeding all the way to milk expression and the use of galactagogues. There are however some situations where none of the traditional interventions work to resolve the problem. Is there something else going on in cases where our usual tricks don’t work? New research has identified two areas of concern–genetic and environmental. This presentation will go beyond the common etiology and interventions and look more deeply into genetic and environmental contributors to low milk supply.

Objectives:

1. Describe the genetic underpinnings of breastmilk synthesis
2. Describe environmental factors that can lead to insufficient breastmilk
3. Explain potential interventions for remediating insufficient milk synthesis

Live Presentation Schedule Apr 8, 2026

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08-04-2026 17:00 08-04-2026 21:00 35 Hidden Contributors to Insufficient Breastmilk: Looking Beyond "Just Feed More" Insufficient milk (real or perceived) is a major reason for formula supplementation and the abandonment of breastfeeding. Much of this issue can be attributed to mismanagement of early breastfeeding or a slow start due to multiple factors such as birth interventions, maternal diabetes and/or obesity, breast anomalies, and infants factors that preclude appropriate milk transfer. Interventions depend on the etiology of the cause and range from simply more breastfeeding all the way to milk expression and the use of galactagogues. There are however some situations where none of the traditional interventions work to resolve the problem. Is there something else going on in cases where our usual tricks don’t work? New research has identified two areas of concern–genetic and environmental. This presentation will go beyond the common etiology and interventions and look more deeply into genetic and environmental contributors to low milk supply. GOLD Lactation Online Conference false DD/MM/YYYY

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This session analyzes the effect of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on lactation professionals’ practices and families’ decision-making about infant feeding, calling for a more critical assessment of the use of this technology. In recent years, access to AI technology has rapidly increased; on the surface, such innovations appear to substantially improve many areas of providers’ and families’ lives by rendering information-gathering and documentation exponentially faster and more efficiently. However, use of AI presents a profusion of ethical considerations that our profession must grapple with to continue to protect, promote, and support breastfeeding around the globe. In this session, we consider how AI documentation methods may affect our ability to equitably support families, particularly marginalized populations, threatening client confidentiality and safety. We also assess the ramifications for families when they turn to ChatGPT for education and advice on infant feeding during this vulnerable period of life after the birth of a new baby. Finally, we advocate for viewing AI and its impact on the environment through a more critical lens. As public health advocates who promote breastfeeding as a climate-conscious practice that protects human health, we cannot ignore AI’s repercussions for the environment and thus for global health.

Objectives:

1. Describe how Artificial Intelligence (AI) such as ChatGPT and AI medical scribes gather and disseminate information within the lactation field, including in practitioner documentation and client information-seeking practices. 2. Explain why AI might be harmful to the families we support, the environment, and the model of ethical, equitable care we strive to offer. 3. List strategies we can utilize to increase accessibility and equity of care and decrease families’ dependence on AI for lactation information.

Live Presentation Schedule Apr 21, 2026

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21-04-2026 15:00 21-04-2026 16:00 35 Let’s Talk About the Robot in the Room: How AI influences lactation care and families’ infant feeding decisions This session analyzes the effect of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on lactation professionals’ practices and families’ decision-making about infant feeding, calling for a more critical assessment of the use of this technology. In recent years, access to AI technology has rapidly increased; on the surface, such innovations appear to substantially improve many areas of providers’ and families’ lives by rendering information-gathering and documentation exponentially faster and more efficiently. However, use of AI presents a profusion of ethical considerations that our profession must grapple with to continue to protect, promote, and support breastfeeding around the globe. In this session, we consider how AI documentation methods may affect our ability to equitably support families, particularly marginalized populations, threatening client confidentiality and safety. We also assess the ramifications for families when they turn to ChatGPT for education and advice on infant feeding during this vulnerable period of life after the birth of a new baby. Finally, we advocate for viewing AI and its impact on the environment through a more critical lens. As public health advocates who promote breastfeeding as a climate-conscious practice that protects human health, we cannot ignore AI’s repercussions for the environment and thus for global health. GOLD Lactation Online Conference false DD/MM/YYYY

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Depressive disorders are common, especially in the perinatal period, and potentially serious. Yet breastfeeding mothers are often left undertreated due to concerns about medication safety. This session offers an evidence-based roadmap for evaluating antidepressant use during lactation, equipping professionals with the tools to make informed, individualized decisions that safeguard both maternal mental health and breastfeeding success. Attendees will learn to assess medication safety in lactation by exploring trusted pharmacological databases and developing the skills to interpret key pharmacokinetic parameters within the context of the breastfeeding dyad. The session will present a structured classification of commonly prescribed antidepressants based on their compatibility with breastfeeding, enabling participants to distinguish preferred therapies from those requiring caution or additional monitoring, including treatments specific to postpartum depression.
Grounded in the latest clinical guidelines and pharmacological references, this session empowers lactation professionals to provide individualized, evidence-informed care that supports both maternal wellness and breastfeeding continuity.

Objectives:

1. Explain the safety of medications used during lactation by applying principles of drug pharmacokinetics and considering key maternal and infant factors.
2. Classify antidepressants according to their compatibility with lactation based on current evidence.
3. Describe preferred antidepressant options for breastfeeding mothers.

Live Presentation Schedule Apr 13, 2026

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13-04-2026 15:00 13-04-2026 16:00 35 Mind & Milk: Managing Depression Pharmacotherapy in Breastfeeding Depressive disorders are common, especially in the perinatal period, and potentially serious. Yet breastfeeding mothers are often left undertreated due to concerns about medication safety. This session offers an evidence-based roadmap for evaluating antidepressant use during lactation, equipping professionals with the tools to make informed, individualized decisions that safeguard both maternal mental health and breastfeeding success. Attendees will learn to assess medication safety in lactation by exploring trusted pharmacological databases and developing the skills to interpret key pharmacokinetic parameters within the context of the breastfeeding dyad. The session will present a structured classification of commonly prescribed antidepressants based on their compatibility with breastfeeding, enabling participants to distinguish preferred therapies from those requiring caution or additional monitoring, including treatments specific to postpartum depression. Grounded in the latest clinical guidelines and pharmacological references, this session empowers lactation professionals to provide individualized, evidence-informed care that supports both maternal wellness and breastfeeding continuity. GOLD Lactation Online Conference false DD/MM/YYYY

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Too many breastfeeding families fall through the cracks in the critical days and weeks after leaving the hospital. Care during the transition from hospital to home can be fragmented, inconsistent or difficult to access and this is right when breastfeeding challenges often peak. This panel brings together lactation professionals from both hospital and community settings to confront the disconnect and look for solutions. Join our expert panelists to explore the real-world consequences of this gap for families, the systemic barriers that perpetuate it, and practical strategies for building a more connected, family-centered continuum of care.

Objectives:

1. Explain why coordination of care between hospital and home is important for breastfeeding. 2. List at least 3 barriers to continuity of breastfeeding support during the transition from hospital to community care. 3. Describe strategies to promote seamless, family-centered lactation support during the transition from hospital to home.

Live Presentation Schedule Apr 15, 2026

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15-04-2026 17:00 15-04-2026 18:00 35 Mind the Gap: Bridging Hospital and Community Lactation Care Too many breastfeeding families fall through the cracks in the critical days and weeks after leaving the hospital. Care during the transition from hospital to home can be fragmented, inconsistent or difficult to access and this is right when breastfeeding challenges often peak. This panel brings together lactation professionals from both hospital and community settings to confront the disconnect and look for solutions. Join our expert panelists to explore the real-world consequences of this gap for families, the systemic barriers that perpetuate it, and practical strategies for building a more connected, family-centered continuum of care. GOLD Lactation Online Conference false DD/MM/YYYY

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The breast is a wonderful organ, rich in innervation and hormonal receptors, and therefore highly sensitive. The lactation period is one of maturation and intense organ activity where the breast is exposed to potent physical and emotional stimuli – both positive and negative. For many women the lactation journey is a persistently painful experience. What are the basic tenets of current pain neuroscience, and how can they help us support breastfeeding dyads who are in distress due to persistent pain?

Objectives:

1. Describe the various sensitive capabilities of the human breast
2. Explain the basic tenants of pain neuroscience and definitions of types of pain pertaining to lactation
3. Describe what pain neuroscience can contribute to our clinical practice
,

Live Presentation Schedule May 11, 2026

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11-05-2026 15:00 11-05-2026 16:15 35 Persistent Nipple and Breast Pain in Lactation: Beyond Pathology to Pain Neuroscience The breast is a wonderful organ, rich in innervation and hormonal receptors, and therefore highly sensitive. The lactation period is one of maturation and intense organ activity where the breast is exposed to potent physical and emotional stimuli – both positive and negative. For many women the lactation journey is a persistently painful experience. What are the basic tenets of current pain neuroscience, and how can they help us support breastfeeding dyads who are in distress due to persistent pain? GOLD Lactation Online Conference false DD/MM/YYYY

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What happens when the promise of help becomes more work disguised as innovation? In More Work for Mother, historian Ruth Schwartz Cowan revealed how labor-saving household technologies often shifted burdens onto mothers rather than easing them. Today, a new generation of tools like apps, pumps, trackers, and AI-driven “solutions” promise to optimize the breastfeeding experience. But who benefits from this promise, and who pays the price?
This presentation invites IBCLCs and perinatal professionals to re-examine the accelerating presence of consumer technology in lactation through a historical lens and why the past is a prescient warning for modern times. By anchoring Cowan’s insights in today’s digital reality, we’ll unpack how the definition of “help” is shaped by commercial interests, and how those interests now enter the clinic, the home, and the body itself.

Objectives:

1. Explain how Cowan’s historical analysis of domestic technologies applies to breastfeeding tools today.
2. Describe ethical tensions in clinician-patient conversations about unregulated or commercially driven technologies.
3. Describe how IBCLCs can foster shared, inclusive decision-making in a tech-saturated perinatal environment.
4. Explain how to initiate cross-disciplinary dialogue around who holds knowledge and authority in breastfeeding care and who should.

Live Presentation Schedule Apr 13, 2026

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13-04-2026 19:00 13-04-2026 20:00 35 Plugged In & Burned Out: The Ethics of Breastfeeding Tech What happens when the promise of help becomes more work disguised as innovation? In More Work for Mother, historian Ruth Schwartz Cowan revealed how labor-saving household technologies often shifted burdens onto mothers rather than easing them. Today, a new generation of tools like apps, pumps, trackers, and AI-driven “solutions” promise to optimize the breastfeeding experience. But who benefits from this promise, and who pays the price? This presentation invites IBCLCs and perinatal professionals to re-examine the accelerating presence of consumer technology in lactation through a historical lens and why the past is a prescient warning for modern times. By anchoring Cowan’s insights in today’s digital reality, we’ll unpack how the definition of “help” is shaped by commercial interests, and how those interests now enter the clinic, the home, and the body itself. GOLD Lactation Online Conference false DD/MM/YYYY

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Exclusively breastfed infants generally follow a healthy growth trajectory; however, in some cases, excessive weight gain is observed, raising concerns for healthcare providers and parents. This presentation explores the potential causes of rapid or excessive weight gain in exclusively breastfed babies, including maternal, infant, and feeding-related factors. We will review evidence-based growth standards, the role of breastmilk composition, possible metabolic and hormonal contributors, and cultural or environmental influences. The concept of deciphering whether or not excess weight is actual vs perceived will be explored. The implications of excessive weight gain for long-term health, such as obesity risk and metabolic programming, will be discussed. Practical approaches to assessment, counselling, and support for families facing this challenge will also be outlined, helping professionals to distinguish normal variations from red flags that warrant further evaluation.

Objectives:

1. Describe normal versus excessive weight gain patterns in exclusively breastfed infants using WHO growth standards and evidence-based benchmarks.
2. Describe the multifactorial causes of excessive weight gain in exclusively breastfed babies, including infant physiology, maternal milk composition, feeding behaviors, and environmental influences.
3. Explain the short and long-term health implications of excessive weight gain in infancy, particularly in relation to obesity risk and metabolic outcomes.
4. List clinical strategies to assess, monitor, and counsel families experiencing concerns about rapid weight gain while promoting breastfeeding success and infant well-being.

Live Presentation Schedule Apr 7, 2026

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07-04-2026 19:00 07-04-2026 20:00 35 Rapid Weight Gain in Breastfeeding Infants: Normal Variation or Cause for Concern? Exclusively breastfed infants generally follow a healthy growth trajectory; however, in some cases, excessive weight gain is observed, raising concerns for healthcare providers and parents. This presentation explores the potential causes of rapid or excessive weight gain in exclusively breastfed babies, including maternal, infant, and feeding-related factors. We will review evidence-based growth standards, the role of breastmilk composition, possible metabolic and hormonal contributors, and cultural or environmental influences. The concept of deciphering whether or not excess weight is actual vs perceived will be explored. The implications of excessive weight gain for long-term health, such as obesity risk and metabolic programming, will be discussed. Practical approaches to assessment, counselling, and support for families facing this challenge will also be outlined, helping professionals to distinguish normal variations from red flags that warrant further evaluation. GOLD Lactation Online Conference false DD/MM/YYYY

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This presentation will address some misconceptions around breastfeeding, epilepsy and medication. Human milk is the optimal first food for almost every baby. However there appears to be a knowledge gap amongst Health Care Professionals (HCP) regarding anti-epileptic drugs- (AED) and breastfeeding. Consequently, they are less likely to initiate a discussion around breastfeeding. Women with epilepsy have their own fears and anxieties about their role as a parent and their ability to feed their baby safely and effectively. As a result, they are less likely to initiate breastfeeding or feed for extended periods of time. However, research has shown that most AED are safe with breastfeeding and breastfeeding has well known benefits for mother and child. Epilepsy presents unique challenges in the perinatal period including sleep deprivation stress, infection and anxiety which may be risk factors for break through seizures. The presentation will address how HCP can counsel women with epilepsy regarding the safety and benefits of breastfeeding while continuing to take AEDs. Learn concrete solutions to the challenges that women with epilepsy face, including supportive measures to protect their physical, emotional and mental wellbeing and to protect the breastfeeding dyad.

Objectives:

1. Describe what is currently known about the safety of breastfeeding while taking anti-epileptic drugs (AEDs).
2. Explain the unique challenges faced by women with epilepsy and how their concerns may affect their breastfeeding choices.
3. Describe strategies for helping women with epilepsy to reach their breastfeeding goals.

Live Presentation Schedule Apr 13, 2026

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13-04-2026 17:00 13-04-2026 18:00 35 Seizing the day, Supporting Women with Epilepsy to Breastfeed This presentation will address some misconceptions around breastfeeding, epilepsy and medication. Human milk is the optimal first food for almost every baby. However there appears to be a knowledge gap amongst Health Care Professionals (HCP) regarding anti-epileptic drugs- (AED) and breastfeeding. Consequently, they are less likely to initiate a discussion around breastfeeding. Women with epilepsy have their own fears and anxieties about their role as a parent and their ability to feed their baby safely and effectively. As a result, they are less likely to initiate breastfeeding or feed for extended periods of time. However, research has shown that most AED are safe with breastfeeding and breastfeeding has well known benefits for mother and child. Epilepsy presents unique challenges in the perinatal period including sleep deprivation stress, infection and anxiety which may be risk factors for break through seizures. The presentation will address how HCP can counsel women with epilepsy regarding the safety and benefits of breastfeeding while continuing to take AEDs. Learn concrete solutions to the challenges that women with epilepsy face, including supportive measures to protect their physical, emotional and mental wellbeing and to protect the breastfeeding dyad. GOLD Lactation Online Conference false DD/MM/YYYY

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Every feeding journey is shaped by a story. Behind the clinical signs and symptoms, families bring histories that reveal crucial clues for understanding lactation challenges and guiding care. Taking a thorough, compassionate clinical history is more than an intake form—it is the foundation for effective assessment, decision-making, and building trust and relationship with clients.

This presentation explores how history-taking unlocks breastfeeding outcomes by blending the art of listening with the science of assessment. Key elements of maternal and infant histories—including medical, psychosocial, and cultural factors—will be reviewed. Case examples demonstrate how small details in a family’s story can change the clinical picture, prevent misdiagnosis, and lead to tailored care plans that are sustainable for a family's individual needs.

Participants will leave with practical strategies and validated tools for integrating history-taking into lactation practice. By honoring client stories and using them to inform clinical reasoning, lactation professionals can transform care encounters into opportunities for deeper understanding and more successful feeding outcomes.

Objectives:

1. Describe the essential components of a comprehensive maternal–infant clinical history that impact breastfeeding outcomes. 2. Explain how effective listening and culturally sensitive history-taking can uncover underlying challenges and guide individualized lactation care plans. 3. Describe practical strategies and tools to integrate client stories into clinical reasoning, leading to improved assessment and breastfeeding support.

Live Presentation Schedule Apr 8, 2026

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08-04-2026 19:00 08-04-2026 20:00 35 Stories that Feed: Unlocking Breastfeeding Outcomes Through History-Taking Every feeding journey is shaped by a story. Behind the clinical signs and symptoms, families bring histories that reveal crucial clues for understanding lactation challenges and guiding care. Taking a thorough, compassionate clinical history is more than an intake form—it is the foundation for effective assessment, decision-making, and building trust and relationship with clients. This presentation explores how history-taking unlocks breastfeeding outcomes by blending the art of listening with the science of assessment. Key elements of maternal and infant histories—including medical, psychosocial, and cultural factors—will be reviewed. Case examples demonstrate how small details in a family’s story can change the clinical picture, prevent misdiagnosis, and lead to tailored care plans that are sustainable for a family's individual needs. Participants will leave with practical strategies and validated tools for integrating history-taking into lactation practice. By honoring client stories and using them to inform clinical reasoning, lactation professionals can transform care encounters into opportunities for deeper understanding and more successful feeding outcomes. GOLD Lactation Online Conference false DD/MM/YYYY

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The death of an infant is devastating and life changing and can elicit profound grief for parents, family members, friends, and health professionals. Many families of stillborn infants and infants who die in the first days, weeks and months of life are faced with decisions about managing their lactation. For some bereaved parents, breastmilk donation may be a desired outcome, yet donation is not always an option presented to, or available to them. Drawing on research with health professionals and bereaved parents, this session will cover (i) the variable meanings of human milk and milk donation after infant death from the perspective of lactating parents and their partners, (ii) the complex temporalities of grief, lactation, and donation decision-making that families and health professionals navigate in the hospital context; (iii) common hurdles that families and health professionals encounter in order to include donation as a care option in the hospital setting, and (iv) alternatives to milk donation when bereaved parents may be ineligible to donate their milk. Participants will be equipped to take this new knowledge and apply it to the unique culture of their own practice settings.

Objectives:

1. Explain the diverse and variable meanings of human milk and milk donation after infant death from the perspective of lactating parents and their partners. 2. Describe ways to address the needs of both parents (lactating parent/s and their partner) in providing donation support. 3. List the hurdles to providing comprehensive lactation care and donation as a care options that may be present in their own care institution.   4. Describe other options of meaning-making with milk when donation is not possible, or when donation comes to an end.

Live Presentation Schedule Apr 7, 2026

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07-04-2026 23:00 08-04-2026 00:00 35 Supporting Bereaved Parents in Grief, Lactation, and Milk Donation Decisions The death of an infant is devastating and life changing and can elicit profound grief for parents, family members, friends, and health professionals. Many families of stillborn infants and infants who die in the first days, weeks and months of life are faced with decisions about managing their lactation. For some bereaved parents, breastmilk donation may be a desired outcome, yet donation is not always an option presented to, or available to them. Drawing on research with health professionals and bereaved parents, this session will cover (i) the variable meanings of human milk and milk donation after infant death from the perspective of lactating parents and their partners, (ii) the complex temporalities of grief, lactation, and donation decision-making that families and health professionals navigate in the hospital context; (iii) common hurdles that families and health professionals encounter in order to include donation as a care option in the hospital setting, and (iv) alternatives to milk donation when bereaved parents may be ineligible to donate their milk. Participants will be equipped to take this new knowledge and apply it to the unique culture of their own practice settings. GOLD Lactation Online Conference false DD/MM/YYYY

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As the field of breastfeeding and lactation research continues to expand, staying informed is increasingly important for those providing lactation support. Yet for many lactation professionals, including International Board Certified Lactation Consultants, finding time to engage with current literature, and knowing how to interpret, appraise it and apply it to real-world situations, can feel overwhelming.
This presentation offers a practical approach to integrating research into everyday lactation support. We will work together to build your research confidence and competence. We will use examples drawn from the latest literature. We will learn to evaluate its robustness and help demonstrate when and how evidence can inform and enhance clinical decision-making.
We will also highlight a selection of recent studies with clear implications for supporting breastfeeding families. Our goal is to equip attendees with both useful insights and a framework for continuing to engage with research independently.

Objectives:

1. Describe how to apply recent evidence from lactation studies to real-world breastfeeding support scenarios.
2. Describe how to critically engage with research literature to inform ongoing clinical decision-making.
3. List at least three recent research papers with the latest clinically applicable evidence in lactation.

Live Presentation Schedule Apr 28, 2026

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28-04-2026 15:00 28-04-2026 16:00 35 The Research Parade: Building Confidence for Evidence-Based Lactation Support As the field of breastfeeding and lactation research continues to expand, staying informed is increasingly important for those providing lactation support. Yet for many lactation professionals, including International Board Certified Lactation Consultants, finding time to engage with current literature, and knowing how to interpret, appraise it and apply it to real-world situations, can feel overwhelming. This presentation offers a practical approach to integrating research into everyday lactation support. We will work together to build your research confidence and competence. We will use examples drawn from the latest literature. We will learn to evaluate its robustness and help demonstrate when and how evidence can inform and enhance clinical decision-making. We will also highlight a selection of recent studies with clear implications for supporting breastfeeding families. Our goal is to equip attendees with both useful insights and a framework for continuing to engage with research independently. GOLD Lactation Online Conference false DD/MM/YYYY

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For decades, the diagnosis of nipple or breast ""thrush"" has been widely applied to lactating individuals experiencing symptoms such as deep breast pain, nipple burning, or skin changes. But how evidence-based is this label? Where did the Candida narrative originate from, and why has it persisted despite limited supporting data?
This presentation critically examines the foundations of the thrush diagnosis through the lenses of anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and pharmacology. It explores emerging research that challenges traditional thinking and highlights recent, evidence-informed updates to clinical guidance. Attendees will be guided through a reassessment of how nipple and breast pain is approached in breastfeeding individuals, with practical implications for diagnosis and management.
By the end, participants will feel empowered to move beyond outdated narratives and toward more accurate and effective care - reducing unnecessary or incorrect treatment and ultimately supporting better lactation outcomes.

Objectives:

1. Explain why nipple/breast thrush as an explanation for pain doesn’t fit with the evidence we have.
2. Describe how and why misdiagnosis of thrush can occur.
3. List alternative explanations for pain and other symptoms misattributed to thrush.
4. Describe evidence-based management strategies to treat various causes of breast and nipple pain.

Live Presentation Schedule May 21, 2026

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21-05-2026 13:00 21-05-2026 14:00 35 The Thrush Trap: Re-thinking Nipple and Breast Pain For decades, the diagnosis of nipple or breast ""thrush"" has been widely applied to lactating individuals experiencing symptoms such as deep breast pain, nipple burning, or skin changes. But how evidence-based is this label? Where did the Candida narrative originate from, and why has it persisted despite limited supporting data? This presentation critically examines the foundations of the thrush diagnosis through the lenses of anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and pharmacology. It explores emerging research that challenges traditional thinking and highlights recent, evidence-informed updates to clinical guidance. Attendees will be guided through a reassessment of how nipple and breast pain is approached in breastfeeding individuals, with practical implications for diagnosis and management. By the end, participants will feel empowered to move beyond outdated narratives and toward more accurate and effective care - reducing unnecessary or incorrect treatment and ultimately supporting better lactation outcomes. GOLD Lactation Online Conference false DD/MM/YYYY

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Breastfeeding is not merely a physiological act; it is shaped by emotional, social, and psychological experiences. A mother’s belief in her own ability or her self-efficacy, plays a crucial role in breastfeeding continuation (Dennis, 1999). Self-efficacy is the confidence in performing a behavior and is linked to initiating and maintaining breastfeeding despite challenges (Bandura, 1997). Recent studies provide us with new insights into self-efficacy and how to support it. Learn more about the various psychological factors that impact maternal confidence and deepen your knowledge of tools like the BSE-SF screening form and how it can be used in clinical practice. Strengthening self-efficacy, the often invisible factor in breastfeeding success, is an essential investment in maternal and infant well-being. This presentation proposes a multi-layered approach combining personal strategies with systemic solutions.

Objectives:

1. Describe the concept of breastfeeding self-efficacy and explain its psychological, emotional, and social foundations. 2. List key psychological factors that influence breastfeeding self-efficacy. 3. Explain the importance of holistic, individualized, and systemic support in enhancing maternal self-efficacy during breastfeeding.

Live Presentation Schedule Apr 7, 2026

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07-04-2026 17:00 07-04-2026 18:00 35 Unseen but Essential: The Invisible Factors That Influence Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy Breastfeeding is not merely a physiological act; it is shaped by emotional, social, and psychological experiences. A mother’s belief in her own ability or her self-efficacy, plays a crucial role in breastfeeding continuation (Dennis, 1999). Self-efficacy is the confidence in performing a behavior and is linked to initiating and maintaining breastfeeding despite challenges (Bandura, 1997). Recent studies provide us with new insights into self-efficacy and how to support it. Learn more about the various psychological factors that impact maternal confidence and deepen your knowledge of tools like the BSE-SF screening form and how it can be used in clinical practice. Strengthening self-efficacy, the often invisible factor in breastfeeding success, is an essential investment in maternal and infant well-being. This presentation proposes a multi-layered approach combining personal strategies with systemic solutions. GOLD Lactation Online Conference false DD/MM/YYYY

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Infant feeding is often referred to as either breast or bottle, with breastfeeding implying direct breastfeeding and bottle implying formula. Direct breastfeeding in this context is clear-cut, but in reality there is a spectrum of how babies are fed.

Breastfeeding definitions vary across research, policy, and clinical practice, leading to inconsistencies in how infant feeding is measured and understood. Describing infant feeding as either "breast" or "bottle," is an oversimplification that fails to capture the complexity of human milk feeding practices. It also ignores formula feeding at the breast.

Breastfeeding definitions range from feeding any breast milk in any way, which includes exclusive breastfeeding, breast milk feeding, or feeding donor milk feeding. The Baby-Friendly Initiative (BFI or BFHI) aligns with this broader description recognizing both direct breastfeeding and the provision of human milk by alternative means.

While breastfeeding definitions have been unclear for some time, what is known about the types of breastfeeding, from exclusive direct breastfeeding to exclusive breast milk feeding, it is critical parents receive accurate information. This presentation will examine various forms of breast/chest feeding, with a lens of informed decision making.

Objectives:

1. Differentiate between various definitions of breastfeeding. 2. Summarize 3 differences between predominant direct breastfeeding to predominant breast milk feeding. 3. List 2 ways to support families with informed decision-making.

Live Presentation Schedule Apr 14, 2026

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14-04-2026 19:00 14-04-2026 20:00 35 What Is Breastfeeding? A Critical Look at Definitions & Informed Decision Making Infant feeding is often referred to as either breast or bottle, with breastfeeding implying direct breastfeeding and bottle implying formula. Direct breastfeeding in this context is clear-cut, but in reality there is a spectrum of how babies are fed. Breastfeeding definitions vary across research, policy, and clinical practice, leading to inconsistencies in how infant feeding is measured and understood. Describing infant feeding as either "breast" or "bottle," is an oversimplification that fails to capture the complexity of human milk feeding practices. It also ignores formula feeding at the breast. Breastfeeding definitions range from feeding any breast milk in any way, which includes exclusive breastfeeding, breast milk feeding, or feeding donor milk feeding. The Baby-Friendly Initiative (BFI or BFHI) aligns with this broader description recognizing both direct breastfeeding and the provision of human milk by alternative means. While breastfeeding definitions have been unclear for some time, what is known about the types of breastfeeding, from exclusive direct breastfeeding to exclusive breast milk feeding, it is critical parents receive accurate information. This presentation will examine various forms of breast/chest feeding, with a lens of informed decision making. GOLD Lactation Online Conference false DD/MM/YYYY

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This session expands the concept of clinical management by integrating both evidence-based protocols and embodied awareness of how trauma and history impact lactation outcomes. Using powerful case studies, we will explore complex presentations in lactation that aren’t just about milk transfer—they’re about what the body remembers.

Participants will examine real-world scenarios involving trauma, medical mistrust, intergenerational lactation loss, and psychosomatic responses that complicate care. Alongside protocols, we’ll highlight how culturally humble, memory-aware care can transform the lactation experience—for both patient and provider.

This is not a departure from clinical care. It is its deepening.

Objectives:

1. List clinical signs of somatic and psychological trauma in lactating individuals that may complicate assessment, latch, or milk ejection.
2. Apply trauma-aware strategies—including a memory-sensitive consent approach—to support complex breastfeeding and chestfeeding cases.
3. Describe how to utilize a clinical tool for mapping lactation complexity that integrates physiological, emotional, and historical factors influencing feeding outcomes.
4. Explain the effectiveness of standard lactation protocols in scenarios where past trauma or generational feeding loss is present.
5. Describe how to incorporate culturally responsive, body-literate care techniques that reduce the risk of re-traumatization during lactation support.

Live Presentation Schedule Mar 30, 2026

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30-03-2026 16:00 30-03-2026 17:15 35 What the Milkline Remembers: Clinical Care for Complex Lactation Rooted in Body, History, and Healing This session expands the concept of clinical management by integrating both evidence-based protocols and embodied awareness of how trauma and history impact lactation outcomes. Using powerful case studies, we will explore complex presentations in lactation that aren’t just about milk transfer—they’re about what the body remembers. Participants will examine real-world scenarios involving trauma, medical mistrust, intergenerational lactation loss, and psychosomatic responses that complicate care. Alongside protocols, we’ll highlight how culturally humble, memory-aware care can transform the lactation experience—for both patient and provider. This is not a departure from clinical care. It is its deepening. GOLD Lactation Online Conference false DD/MM/YYYY

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Herbal therapeutics are increasingly sought by families during the perinatal and lactation period, yet clinical guidance on safe and effective use remains limited and often inconsistent. Lactation consultants and perinatal providers are uniquely positioned to support informed decision-making when herbal options are considered. This presentation will outline a structured, evidence-informed approach to integrating herbal care into lactation consultations, moving from thorough client assessment to clear, accessible education and informed decision-making. Participants will explore strategies for evaluating safety, efficacy, and individualized considerations, as well as practical communication techniques for discussing benefits, risks, and alternatives with families. Emphasis will be placed on case-based learning, application of current research, and tools for confidently navigating herbal care conversations in clinical practice.

Objectives:

1. Explain the safety, efficacy, and contraindications of commonly used herbal therapies during lactation using current evidence and clinical resources. 2. Describe how to apply a structured, stepwise approach to assessing client needs and integrating herbal care considerations into lactation consultations. 3. Describe effective communication strategies to support informed decision-making when discussing herbal options with lactating families.

Live Presentation Schedule Apr 27, 2026

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27-04-2026 17:00 27-04-2026 18:00 35 From Evaluation to Education: Navigating Herbal Care Options in Lactation Consultations Herbal therapeutics are increasingly sought by families during the perinatal and lactation period, yet clinical guidance on safe and effective use remains limited and often inconsistent. Lactation consultants and perinatal providers are uniquely positioned to support informed decision-making when herbal options are considered. This presentation will outline a structured, evidence-informed approach to integrating herbal care into lactation consultations, moving from thorough client assessment to clear, accessible education and informed decision-making. Participants will explore strategies for evaluating safety, efficacy, and individualized considerations, as well as practical communication techniques for discussing benefits, risks, and alternatives with families. Emphasis will be placed on case-based learning, application of current research, and tools for confidently navigating herbal care conversations in clinical practice. GOLD Lactation Online Conference false DD/MM/YYYY

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Feeding challenges are rarely solved by clinical knowledge alone. We must further develop our understanding of the gap between what we recommend and what families can realistically implement. While intake forms and parental narratives offer valuable starting points, they often provide an incomplete picture of the nuanced complexities families face. This presentation invites lactation consultants to look deeper to uncover the realities influencing feeding outcomes, learning from real-world examples where standard care models didn’t fit, and adaptive strategies were needed.

We will examine how lactation professionals can integrate careful observation, appropriate assessments, careful questioning, and therapeutic exercises with an understanding of each family's unique dynamics, coping capacity, and lived experience. We'll explore how mental health, trauma, familial context, and parenting load impact a client’s ability to implement feeding recommendations and how our approach must flex accordingly. Participants will leave with strategies to build trust, pace information delivery, and co-create plans that are both clinically sound and emotionally manageable. By moving beyond a checklist approach, we can better support families in ways that are compassionate, realistic, and ultimately more effective.

Objectives:

1. Describe the limitations of standard clinical approaches to lactation care. 2. Describe how lactation assessment skills can be improved through the use of holistic observation. 3. Explain the impact of psychosocial and contextual factors on infant feeding outcomes.  4. Describe how to adapt clinical lactation strategies to family realities. 5. Describe how to build trust and co-create manageable lactation care plans.

Live Presentation Schedule Apr 27, 2026

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27-04-2026 15:00 27-04-2026 16:00 35 From Paper to Practice: The Nuanced Reality of Applying Sucking Skills with Clients Feeding challenges are rarely solved by clinical knowledge alone. We must further develop our understanding of the gap between what we recommend and what families can realistically implement. While intake forms and parental narratives offer valuable starting points, they often provide an incomplete picture of the nuanced complexities families face. This presentation invites lactation consultants to look deeper to uncover the realities influencing feeding outcomes, learning from real-world examples where standard care models didn’t fit, and adaptive strategies were needed. We will examine how lactation professionals can integrate careful observation, appropriate assessments, careful questioning, and therapeutic exercises with an understanding of each family's unique dynamics, coping capacity, and lived experience. We'll explore how mental health, trauma, familial context, and parenting load impact a client’s ability to implement feeding recommendations and how our approach must flex accordingly. Participants will leave with strategies to build trust, pace information delivery, and co-create plans that are both clinically sound and emotionally manageable. By moving beyond a checklist approach, we can better support families in ways that are compassionate, realistic, and ultimately more effective. GOLD Lactation Online Conference false DD/MM/YYYY

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