Maternal and infant health outcomes are shaped by more than clinical care alone—they reflect the complex interplay of medical, social, and emotional factors that affect patients every day. That’s why the 44th Annual Gravidas at Risk Conference, hosted by Northwest AHEC, is designed to equip healthcare professionals with the knowledge, tools, and compassion needed to care for pregnant individuals facing increased risk.
Taking place November 4–5, 2026 at the Hickory Metro Convention Center, this two-day, statewide conference continues a long-standing tradition of advancing perinatal care through interdisciplinary collaboration and evidence-based learning.
Why Gravidas at Risk Matters
As the landscape of maternal-child health continues to evolve, providers are encountering increasingly complex challenges—from rising rates of high-risk pregnancies to the growing impact of social determinants of health. Gravidas at Risk brings together experts and professionals across disciplines to address these critical issues head-on.
This year’s conference focuses on delivering practical, real-world strategies that can be applied in both inpatient and outpatient settings, helping providers improve outcomes for mothers, infants, and families alike.
What You’ll Learn
The 2026 program offers a dynamic mix of clinical insights and holistic approaches to care. Attendees will gain valuable knowledge on topics including:
- Alcohol use during pregnancy and evidence-informed intervention strategies
- Cardiac conditions in pregnancy and early identification of risk factors
- The impact of social determinants of health on perinatal outcomes
- Recognizing and responding to intimate partner violence
- Emerging applications of artificial intelligence in obstetrics
In addition to clinical content, the conference emphasizes whole-person care, with sessions on mindfulness, resilience, and even therapeutic bedrest yoga to support both patients and providers.
Designed for Interdisciplinary Care Teams
Gravidas at Risk is built for a wide range of professionals dedicated to maternal and child health, including:
- Nurses and nurse practitioners
- Nurse midwives
- Social workers
- Educators
- Other healthcare professionals working with childbearing families
By bringing these perspectives together, the conference fosters collaboration and shared learning across care settings.
Earn Continuing Education Credits
Participants can earn valuable continuing education credits while expanding their expertise:
- Up to 10 contact hours for the full conference
- 5 contact hours for single-day attendance
Northwest AHEC is an approved provider of nursing continuing professional development through the North Carolina Nurses Association.
Register Today
Whether you’re looking to deepen your clinical expertise or expand your approach to whole-person care, Gravidas at Risk offers a unique opportunity to learn, connect, and grow alongside fellow professionals.
👉 View the agenda and register
