The following is a partial list of classes and programs that are offered to the community on a regular basis. Registration is required for all events except blood pressure screenings. Please call the numbers listed for more information.

ASTHMA EDUCATION AND AWARENESS

Hosted by appointment in the Respiratory Therapy Department at Saint Mary's Hospital. Patient education topics include: identifying your triggers, effective relaxation, knowing your personal best for peak-flow meters, infection awareness, appropriate exercise, medication knowledge and when to call your doctor. A licensed respiratory therapist leads the session. To schedule an appointment, call (203) 709-6246.

THE BIRTHPLACE AT SAINT MARY'S HOSPITAL: TOUR AND ORIENTATION

Learn more about The Birthplace and its unique childbirth options, including water birth, at our monthly orientations. Orientation is held the second Wednesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. in The Birthplace, part of the Saint Mary's Hospital Women and Infants' Center, 56 Franklin St., Waterbury. For more information, call (203) 709-7270.

BLOOD PRESSURE SCREENING

This free screening is available Tuesdays and Thursdays, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Saint Mary's Hospital Health and Wellness Center, Crosspointe Plaza, 799 New Haven Road, in Naugatuck. High blood pressure causes no symptoms for many years. This is why it is so important to have your blood pressure checked by a health care professional. When high blood pressure occurs, the heart and blood vessels work harder to pump blood throughout the system. Over time, this can lead to problems such as heart attacks, hardening of the arteries, stroke and congestive heart failure. Take the time to have your pressure checked; it could save your life. For more information, call (203) 729-5636.

BREAST AND CERVICAL CANCER SCREENINGS

Screening mammography offered in partnership with the Susan G. Komen Cancer Foundation. Breast and cervical screening offered through the Connecticut Department of Public Health and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). Breast and cervical cancers are highly curable when found early. The best weapons you have to protect your health are quality information and early detection. Call Saint Mary's Family Health Center for more information on these free screenings, (203) 709-3812.

BREAST­FEEDING

Click here for dates, phone number and a printable registration form.

CARDIAC EDUCATION AND SUPPORT CLASSES

Improving cardiac wellness is the focus of the education and support programs offered by the Cardiac Rehabilitation Department at Saint Mary's Hospital. A variety of topics are addressed, including risk factors for heart disease, diet and nutrition, exercise and stress management. For more information, call (203) 709-6202.

EXPECTANT PARENT CHILDBIRTH PREPARATION PROGRAM

Click here for dates, phone number and a printable registration form.

INFANT CAR SEAT SAFETY CLASS

Click here for dates, phone number and a printable registration form.

MASSAGE THERAPY

Make a renewed commitment to healthy living.  Let our CT licensed and nationally certified massage therapists show you the many proven benefits of massage for stress relief, vitality, and overall feeling of wellness.  Daytime, evening, and weekend appointments are available at Saint Mary’s Hospital, 56 Franklin Street., Waterbury, and Saint Mary's Health and Wellness Center, at 1312 West Main St., Waterbury.  Services include Swedish massage incorporated with orthopedic massage for work/sports/overuse related injuries as well as massage for the cancer patient  (reduces anxiety and improves quality of life), mastectomy massage, massage for new moms, and energy work.  A frequent visit card is also offered to those who come regularly- with10 massages the 11th is half price.

For more information or to make an appointment please call Kathleen Christiano, Licensed Massage Therapist, at (203) 709-4545.

OUTPATIENT NUTRITION COUNSELING SERVICES

Saint Mary’s Hospital provides nutrition counseling services to the public by registered dietitians.  Issues concerning infant feeding practices, poor eating habits, weight management, and therapeutic dietary management for specific diseases (such as heart disease, liver disease, renal disease, cancer and diverticulosis) can all be approached through the service.  Additional topics for discussion include home nutrition support for Total Parenteral Nutrition, tube feeding, wound healing, enhancing patient’s health before surgery, eating disorders and sports nutrition.  A physician’s referral is not required but there is a fee for the service.  For more information call (203) 709-3529 or (203) 709- 3041.

POSTPARTUM SUPPORT GROUP

The birth of a child is one of life’s most celebrated events. But for some women, it can be followed by periods of sadness, frustration, fatigue and anxiety. With the right kind of help and support, including the opportunity to meet with other women who are experiencing these emotions, the burden and sadness can be treated. The newly formed group, Laughter and Tears: The Adjustment after Childbirth, will meet every Wednesday from 9:30 to 11 a.m. at the Saint Mary’s Hospital Children’s Health Center Conference Room, 133 Scovill Street in Watebury. Both moms and children are welcome. Arlene Pereira, a licensed clinical social worker at Saint Mary’s Hospital, facilitates the group. For more information or to register for the group, please call (203) 709-6090.

PULMONARY REHABILITATION CLASSES

With a physician referral, cardiac rehabilitation classes are offered by appointment for patients who have restrictive lung disease or have undergone cardiac surgery.  To schedule an appointment call (203) 709-6246.

SIBLING PREPARATION CLASS

Click here for dates, phone number and a printable registration form.

CALENDAR OF SPECIAL EVENTS

A number of special programs are offered, dedicated to keeping our communities healthy and well-informed. For more information and questions on other upcoming activities, please call ( 203) 709-6214.