Advancing Lactation Equity: Highlights from the 2025 Annual Breastfeeding Conference
On August 7, 2025, 127 providers, doulas, lactation specialists, and consultants gathered for the Annual Breastfeeding Conference to share knowledge, strategies, and inspiration for advancing lactation equity. The event opened with remarks from Dr. Olutosin Ojugbele, MD, MPH, Medical Director for the Rhode Island Department of Health’s Division of Community Health & Equity and Division of Environmental Health. Dr. Ojugbele unveiled the Rhode Island Breastfeeding Strategic Plan and issued a powerful call to action—reminding attendees of the important work ahead to support families and strengthen the breastfeeding and lactation workforce over the next five years.
Keynote speaker Dr. Rose St. Fleur, MD, FAAP, FABM delivered The Case for Lactation Advocacy: Heeding the Call to Action. She explored how hospital systems can drive change through initiatives like the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative and PDSA cycles, while offering actionable steps to ensure all families receive the breastfeeding support they deserve.
A moving panel discussion, Diverse Journeys in Breastfeeding and Lactation Support, highlighted six panelists who shared personal stories—ranging from navigating breastfeeding after breast cancer to the influence of culture, the importance of mental health, and the role of non-lactating parents.
Participants also engaged in workshops on:
- Safe Sleep and Breastfeeding
- Cannabis Use During Pregnancy and Lactation
- Perinatal Mental Health Amid Infant Feeding Challenges
- Successful Breastfeeding Strategies in the Workplace
Between sessions, attendees connected with vendors and community partners including RIDOH, Urban Perinatal Education Center, Mothers’ Milk Bank Northeast, The Greatest8, Aeroflow, and Doulas of RI. The day concluded with a lively celebration of World Breastfeeding Week, featuring networking, raffles, and renewed energy to advance breastfeeding support across communities.
Funding for this conference was provided by the Rhode Island Department of Health. View slides and resources here.
