Healthy Living | Hartford Healthcare

Prepared Childbirth Education – The Six Week Virtual Series
2025-12-01 18:00 - 20:30 (America/New_York) | Virtual Via Zoom
Class runs every Monday virtually via Zoom from December 1, 2025 – January 5, 2026
This Class covers all the essentials for preparing for the labor and birth of your baby in six weeks. Topics include: stages of labor, relaxation and breathing techniques, comfort measures, positioning for labor, partner’s role, analgesia, anesthesia, cesarean birth, postpartum adjustment, breastfeeding, newborn care, Advanced Comfort Skills for Labor, and much more*. We recommend you complete classes approximately 2 – 6 weeks before your due date. Classes limited to 8 couples*
Note: For those giving birth at Manchester Hospital, we also recommend that you register for one of our monthly scheduled tours of the Family Birthing Center.
*Class Fee is per couple: 1 ticket = 1 couple
Note: Within 1 week of registration, you will receive an email confirmation with additional details.
Please call Perinatal Education 860-647-4790 or email lsembersky@echn.org for more information of if you have any questions.

New Mothers' Group
2025-12-02 10:00 - 23:00, 2025-12-09 10:00 - 23:00, 2025-12-16 10:00 - 23:00 | Manchester Memorial Hospital, 71 Haynes Street, Manchester, CT, 06040, United States
If you have a baby six months and younger and want to get out to spend time with other new Moms, please join us for an informal support group on Tuesday mornings.
Registration is not required – this is a drop-in group.
Time: 10 – 11 am
The group is usually facilitated by an FBC staff member who is also a Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) but all feeding choices are supported.
If you have any questions, please email Perinatal Education Coordinator, Lauren Sembersky: lsembersky@echn.org or call 860-647-4790.
Location: Manchester Hospital Family Birthing Center Education Room
71 Haynes Street
Manchester, CT 06040
*Directions to FBC Lobby: From Main Street in Manchester take Haynes Street toward the hospital. Before you reach the main entrance of the hospital, take the first right onto Guard Street toward the Ambulatory Service Center (ASC). The ASC is the 2nd building on the left. Parking is available in the parking lot at the very end of Guard Street. Enter the hospital through the ASC entrance and check in with security (ID required). Take the stairs or elevator on your left to the first floor (press #1 – it is the 3rd level of the ASC). The lobby is right off the elevator is outside the entrance into the Family Birthing Center.

Postpartum & Baby Care Classes
2025-12-03 18:00 - 20:30 | Manchester Memorial Hospital, 71 Haynes Street, Manchester, CT, 06040, United States
This is a two week series: Wednesdays 12/3/25 & 12/10/25 from 6:00 – 8:30 pm
For expectant parents who wish that babies came with an owner’s manual, this class covers diapering, bathing, crying, safety and many other details of newborn care plus postpartum self-care and adjustment to make a smoother transition to parenthood. Hands on instruction will ease you through the first days and nights at home with your baby.
Class fee is per couple: 1 seat = 1 couple
Note: Within 1 week of registration, you will receive an email confirmation with dates and times of the classes. Directions with parking information are also included.
Please call Perinatal Education 860-647-4790 or email lsembersky@echn.org for more information or if you have any questions.

How Stress Affects Your Health: Learn Mindfulness, Biofeedback & More
2025-12-04 18:00 - 19:30 | Virtual Via Zoom
Managing stress effectively involves utilizing various stress regulation techniques, including relaxation exercises, mindfulness, physical activity, healthy lifestyle choices, and strategic time management. Join naturopath Craig Fasullo, ND, for a discussion on how the nervous system functions. He will discuss the relationship between high stress and chronic health conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and obesity, and share some home exercises to improve overall health. He will also introduce biofeedback therapy, a technique that helps people learn to control heart rate variability, breathing, muscle tension, and skin temperature to help manage conditions like chronic pain, high blood pressure, anxiety, Raynaud’s syndrome, and insomnia.
Registration is required.

~Sold Out ~ Prepared Childbirth Education – The All Weekend Series
2025-12-05 18:00 - 21:00 | Manchester Memorial Hospital, 71 Haynes Street, Manchester, CT, 06040, United States
This class is sold out! Please see our virtual childbirth series starting on December 1 or Just Labor and Birth January 9th, 10th, 14, 21, and 28th.
Includes the following classes:
1. Weekend Childbirth Education – Just Labor and Birth
Friday 12/5/25 from 6:00 – 9:00 pm and Saturday 12/6/25 from 9:30 – 3:00 pm. Designed for expectant parents with tight schedules. This two-session series of classes includes all the vital components to prepare you for labor and birth.
2. Breastfeeding for the Pregnant Couple – Friday 12/12/25 from 6:00 – 8:30 pm. This class explains the advantages of nursing, breastfeeding techniques and positions, breast milk expression and storage, ways to prevent common problems, handling the first few weeks at home and more. Fathers and support persons are encouraged to attend. Taught by our Certified Lactation Consultants. Breastfeeding book provided with class.
3. Postpartum and Baby Care Classes – Saturday 12/13/25 from 9:30 am- 3:00 pm For expectant parents who wish that babies came with an owner’s manual, this class covers diapering, bathing, crying, safety and many other details of newborn care and postpartum expectations. Hands on instruction will ease you through the first days and nights at home with baby.
Note: Within 1 week of registration, you will receive an email confirmation with additional details.
*Class Fee is per couple: 1 ticket = 1 couple
Please call Perinatal Education 860-647-4790 or email lsembersky@echn.org for more information or if you have any questions.

~ Sold Out ~ Weekend Childbirth Education – Just Labor and Birth
2025-12-05 18:00 - 21:00 | Manchester Memorial Hospital, 71 Haynes Street, Manchester, CT, 06040, United States
This class is sold out! Please see our virtual childbirth series starting on December 1 or Just Labor and Birth January 9th and 10th
Class meets Friday 12/5/25 from 6:00 – 9:00 pm and Saturday 12/6/25 from 9:30 am – 3:00 pm
Designed for expectant parents with tight schedules. This two-session series of classes includes all the vital components to prepare you for labor and birth.
*Class Fee is per couple: 1 ticket = 1 couple
*Class does not include Breastfeeding or Postpartum & Baby Care.
After registration, you will receive an email confirmation with additional details.
Please call Perinatal Education 860-647-4790 or email lsembersky@echn.org for more information of if you have any questions.
Financial aid is available to those that qualify.

Fit For Delivery Prenatal Exercise Class - Drop In (Medical Clearance Required)
2025-12-06 08:45 - 09:45 | Manchester Memorial Hospital, Conference Room E/F
This class held Saturday December 6 from 8:45 am – 9:45 am.
We are excited to launch a new prenatal exercise class designed for expectant mothers. Taught by an A.C.E. Certified Group Fitness Instructor and experienced Childbirth Educator. Classes will include a warm up, pregnancy specific exercises, low impact cardio workout, circuit and strength training, stretching and relaxation techniques.
Benefits of exercise during pregnancy include:
• Faster postpartum recovery
• Increased strength, stamina and energy
• Less pregnancy-related back pain and improved posture
• Relief of common pregnancy discomforts
• Relief of daily stress and tension
No exercise experience is necessary. Exercises can be modified based on individual needs.
Medical clearance is required so ask your Doctor or Midwife to write a note saying it’s OK to exercise and either email it to lsembersky@echn.org or bring it with you to the first class. We are sorry but without a note, you will not be allowed to participate.

Fit After Delivery Postpartum Fitness (Drop In)
2025-12-06 10:15 - 11:15, 2025-12-20 10:15 - 11:15 | Manchester Memorial Hospital, Conference Room E/F
A postpartum exercise class designed for moms and babies. Classes include cardio and strength exercises with an emphasis on regaining core strength. Individual attention is offered to help participants achieve their goals based on their own birth recovery experience. Babies from 6 weeks to 6 months are welcome and included in class as appropriate. Enjoy the added benefit of meeting other moms and receiving parenting support too! Taught by an A.C.E. Certified Group Fitness Instructor and experienced Childbirth Educator and Birth Doula.
No exercise experience is necessary. Exercises can be modified based on individual needs.
Please call Perinatal Education 860-647-4790 or email lsembersky@echn.org for more information or if you have any questions.
Note: Within 1 week of the start of the class, you will receive an email with additional information including what to bring, directions and parking information.
Four week session is $65.00 – Drop-in option is $20 per class

Prepared Childbirth Education – The Six Week Series
2025-12-08 18:00 - 20:30 | Manchester Memorial Hospital, 71 Haynes Street, Manchester, CT, 06040, United States
Class runs every Monday from December 8, 2025 – January 19, 2026 (no session on 12/29)
This Class covers all the essentials for preparing for the labor and birth of your baby in six weeks. Topics include: stages of labor, relaxation and breathing techniques, comfort measures, positioning for labor, partner’s role, analgesia, anesthesia, cesarean birth, postpartum adjustment, breastfeeding, newborn care, Advanced Comfort Skills for Labor, and much more*. We recommend you complete classes approximately 2 – 6 weeks before your due date. Classes limited to 8 couples*
Note: For your convenience, a tour of the Family Birthing Center will be offered after one of these classes.
*Class Fee is per couple: 1 ticket = 1 couple
Note: Within 1 week of registration, you will receive an email confirmation with additional details.
Please call Perinatal Education 860-647-4790 or email lsembersky@echn.org if you have any questions.

Lunch and Learn: Acupuncture
2025-12-09 12:00 - 13:00 | John A. DeQuattro Cancer Center, Conference Room A, 100 Haynes Street, Manchester, CT, 06040, United States
Join us at our Lunch and Learn for Cancer Survivors and their caregivers.
This Lunch and Learn topic will be presented by Dr. Diana Zitserman. Acupuncture stimulates the body’s natural healing process through non-medical means by way of inserting thin, sterile, disposable needles into specific areas of the body. This ancient practice from traditional Chinese medicine is one of the oldest, most common, and dependable medical therapies used in the world that seeks to stimulate the body’s ability to heal itself. Acupuncture can be helpful for many conditions experienced by individuals facing or undergoing cancer treatment, or who have post-cancer treatment issues, including: anxiety, depression, “brain fog,” diarrhea, constipation, dry mouth/throat, fatigue, generalized pain, hot flashes/night sweats, insomnia, restless legs, nausea, vomiting, neuropathy, post-COVID symptoms, radiation burns, and stress reduction.
This free Lunch and Learn will be held at the John A. Dequattro Cancer Center and a light lunch will be provided. A virtual option will be provided as well.
100 Haynes Street, Manchester, CT 06040
Registration required. To register please call 860.646.1222 ext.1406 or ext.1408 or you can email ljuliani@echn.org or kfiume@echn.org.

Rooted in Wellness: Natural Postpartum Support for Mom & Baby
2025-12-09 18:00 - 19:30 | Virtual Via Zoom
Postpartum nutrition for both mom and baby focuses on replenishing the mother’s nutrient stores, supporting energy levels, and ensuring optimal growth and development for the baby, particularly if breastfeeding. Becoming a mother is a special time, and good postpartum nutrition can help set up mom and baby for a successful beginning. Join naturopath Lauren Young, ND, as she shares information on how diet can support early motherhood, from healing and breastfeeding to energy and mood support.
Registration is required.

Family Birthing Center Tour - 2 people
2025-12-11 17:00 - 19:30 | Manchester Memorial Hospital, 71 Haynes Street, Manchester, CT, 06040, United States
Family Birthing Center Tours are available by registration only. Tours are limited to expectant parents (Pregnant parent plus one additional partner only). Absolutely no children or walk ins allowed. Each 30 minute tour is limited to just 7 couples (1 ticket = 2 people).
A confirmation with additional information will be sent via email.
Plan to arrive 10 – 15 minutes prior to your tour time to check in with security.
Select only one ticket per couple.
Please email Lauren in Perinatal Education at lsembersky@echn.org for more information or if you have any questions.
The next Family Birthing Center Tour is Saturday January 17, 2025.
Our unofficial video tour:

Breastfeeding for the Pregnant Couple
2025-12-12 18:00 - 20:30 | Manchester Memorial Hospital, 71 Haynes Street, Manchester, CT, 06040, United States
This class explains the advantages of nursing, breastfeeding techniques and positions, breast milk expression and storage, ways to prevent common problems, handling the first few weeks at home and more. Fathers and support persons are encouraged to attend. Taught by our Certified Lactation Consultants. Breastfeeding book provided with class.
*Class Fee is per couple: 1 ticket = 1 couple
Note: Within 1 week of registration, you will receive an email confirmation with dates and times of the classes. Directions with parking information are also included.
Please call Perinatal Education 860-647-4790 or email lsembersky@echn.org if you have any questions.

Cancelled - Fit For Delivery Prenatal Exercise Class - Drop In (Medical Clearance Required)
2025-12-13 08:45 - 09:45 | Manchester Memorial Hospital, Conference Room E/F
This class held Saturday December 13 from 8:45 am – 9:45 am.
We are excited to launch a new prenatal exercise class designed for expectant mothers. Taught by an A.C.E. Certified Group Fitness Instructor and experienced Childbirth Educator. Classes will include a warm up, pregnancy specific exercises, low impact cardio workout, circuit and strength training, stretching and relaxation techniques.
Benefits of exercise during pregnancy include:
• Faster postpartum recovery
• Increased strength, stamina and energy
• Less pregnancy-related back pain and improved posture
• Relief of common pregnancy discomforts
• Relief of daily stress and tension
No exercise experience is necessary. Exercises can be modified based on individual needs.
Medical clearance is required so ask your Doctor or Midwife to write a note saying it’s OK to exercise and either email it to lsembersky@echn.org or bring it with you to the first class. We are sorry but without a note, you will not be allowed to participate.

Cancelled - Fit After Delivery Postpartum Fitness (Drop In)
2025-12-13 10:15 - 11:15 | Manchester Memorial Hospital, Conference Room E/F

Postpartum & Baby Care Classes
2025-12-13 18:00 - 20:30 | Manchester Memorial Hospital, 71 Haynes Street, Manchester, CT, 06040, United States
This class is sold out! Please see our virtual childbirth series starting on December 1 or Postpartum and Baby Care on January 21st and 28th.
This 2 session class runs Saturday, 12/13/25 from 9:30 am – 3:00 pm. Morning session is Postpartum Care and Afternoon Session is Baby Care. There will be a 30 minute lunch break from 12:00 – 12:30 pm. Lunch is available to purchase in the cafeteria or bring lunch with you.
For expectant parents who wish that babies came with an owner’s manual, this class covers diapering, bathing, crying, safety and many other details of newborn care plus postpartum self-care and adjustment to make a smoother transition to parenthood. Hands on instruction will ease you through the first days and nights at home with your baby.
Class fee is per couple: 1 seat = 1 couple
Note: Within 1 week of registration, you will receive an email confirmation with dates and times of the classes. Directions with parking information are also included.
Please call Perinatal Education 860-647-4790 or email lsembersky@echn.org if you have any questions.

Early Pregnancy Class (Virtual)
2025-12-16 18:00 - 20:30 | Virtual Event
This class is specially designed for couples who recently found out they are pregnant (up to 25 weeks) or are hoping to become pregnant in the near future.
This class, taught by our Certified Childbirth Educators, will help you to have the healthiest and safest pregnancy possible. We can answer your questions about nutrition, safe exercise, relieving pregnancy discomforts, fetal development, warning signs and lots more.
NOTE: THIS CLASS WILL BE HELD VIRTUALLY VIA ZOOM. YOU WILL RECEIVE A CONFIRMATION VIA EMAIL WITH MORE DETAILS.
Class registration is per couple. 1 ticket = 1 couple
Please call Perinatal Education 860-647-4790 or email lsembersky@echn.org if you have any questions.

Sweet Talk Holiday Party (Sweet Talk Support Group)
2025-12-19 12:00 - 13:00 | Miller Building, Manchester Memorial Hospital, 75 Haynes Road, Manchester, CT
“Sweet Talk” is a support group for people with diabetes and prediabetes. The group meets regularly on the third Tuesday of the month from 12-1 PM at Manchester Memorial Hospital located at 71 Haynes Street, Manchester CT. Please join us and network with other people with diabetes. Feel free to bring a friend or caretaker. If you have any questions, please call 860-647-6824.
Let’s celebrate YOU! Join us for our annual holiday gathering. Bring a dish to share and enjoy good food, good company, and some festive fun as we reflect on 2025 and set new wellness goals for the new year.

Just for You! Sibling Class & Tour
2025-12-19 18:00 - 19:00 | Manchester Memorial Hospital, 71 Haynes Street, Manchester, CT, 06040, United States
A one hour program for children ages 2 – 10 whose parents are expecting another baby. This class helps older children understand their roles as big brothers and big sisters and gets them familiar with The Family Birthing Center. Parents are welcome/encouraged to attend with their little ones free of charge.
**Fee for families with 3 or more children is $35.00 – please call 860-647-4790 for this special rate.
Note: Within 1 week of registration, you will receive an email confirmation with dates and times of the classes. Directions with parking information are also included.
Please call Perinatal Education 860-647-4790 or email lsembersky@echn.org if you have any questions.

Fit For Delivery Prenatal Exercise Class - Drop In (Medical Clearance Required)
2025-12-20 08:45 - 09:45 | Manchester Memorial Hospital, Conference Room E/F
This class held Saturday December 20 from 8:45 am – 9:45 am.
We are excited to launch a new prenatal exercise class designed for expectant mothers. Taught by an A.C.E. Certified Group Fitness Instructor and experienced Childbirth Educator. Classes will include a warm up, pregnancy specific exercises, low impact cardio workout, circuit and strength training, stretching and relaxation techniques.
Benefits of exercise during pregnancy include:
• Faster postpartum recovery
• Increased strength, stamina and energy
• Less pregnancy-related back pain and improved posture
• Relief of common pregnancy discomforts
• Relief of daily stress and tension
No exercise experience is necessary. Exercises can be modified based on individual needs.
Medical clearance is required so ask your Doctor or Midwife to write a note saying it’s OK to exercise and either email it to lsembersky@echn.org or bring it with you to the first class. We are sorry but without a note, you will not be allowed to participate.
