If you’re pregnant or just gave birth, chances are you’re missing those essential in-person support opportunities like prepping for your baby with pre-birth classes or bonding with other new moms. But here’s some good news—RWJBarnabas Health is offering virtual ways for new moms and moms-to-be to connect and be their healthiest this January. Whether you are looking for childbirth prep, breastfeeding support, or just a group of new moms, you can log on to find support, all while still wearing your PJs. So grab a cup of tea and your favorite snack, and cozy up on the couch with one of these mom groups and classes below—no commute required.
Featured Photo Credit: Istock/NataliaDeriabina
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New Programs Added As Of January 20, 2022
Pregnancy and the COVID-19 Vaccine Webinar
January 23 at 1 PM
Dr. Serena Chen, a Reproductive Medicine Specialist at Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center and IRMS Reproductive Medicine and Dr. Dyese Taylor, a Maternal Fetal Medicine Specialist at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center, discuss the safety and efficacy of the COVID-19 vaccines for expectant families and couples planning a pregnancy.
Virtual
Cost: Free
Sponsoring Facility: RWJBarnabas Health
Having a Healthy Pregnancy During a Pandemic Webinar
January 24 at 11:30 AM
For many families, expecting a new baby is usually a time of excitement. However with the COVID-19 pandemic, many pregnant women are instead feeling anxious and concerned about how the pandemic will affect their pregnancy, delivery, and the overall health of their baby and themselves. Sarah Rieber, DNP, APN-C, IBCLC, PMH-C talks about this important topic.
Virtual
Cost: Free
Sponsoring Facility: RWJBarnabas Health
URGENT: BLOOD & PLATELET DRIVE
January 24 from 12 PM-6 PM
One in 83 births will require a blood transfusion. Hemorrhage is the leading cause of death on delivery day in the United States. Access to safe blood products makes a difference.
Arline & Henry Schwartzman Courtyard at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital, 1 Robert Wood Johnson Place, New Brunswick, NJ 08901
Visit www.rwjuhdonorclub.org or call 732-235-8100 ext. 221
COVID-19 Vaccine Appointments Available for Pregnant and Post-Partum Women
January 25 and January 28
In New Jersey, January 23 is recognized as Maternal Health Awareness Day, and in recognition, RWJBarnabas Health will host an event to promote improvements in maternal and infant health outcomes. The COVID-19 vaccine rates among pregnant and post-partum women around the state is low, and a small, but significant number of unvaccinated pregnant patients are now requiring clinical care. To address this issue, Jersey City Medical Center, a facility of RWJBarnabas Health will have appointments available for pregnant and post-partum women to receive the COVID-19 vaccine on January 25 and 28. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the COVID-19 vaccination is recommended for pregnant women. In addition, everyone who is age 18 and older, including those who are pregnant, breastfeeding, trying to get pregnant now, or might become pregnant in the future, is recommended for a vaccine. Getting a COVID-19 vaccine offers protection from severe illness from COVID-19, and a healthy mom is important for a healthy baby. If you are pregnant, you might want to have a conversation with your healthcare provider about COVID-19 vaccination.
Jersey City Medical Center, 355 Grand Street, Jersey City, NJ 07302
For more information about this event, or to schedule a vaccine appointment, contact Sheridan Blackwell at 551-200-3143 or Sheridan.Blackwell@rwjbh.org
“Hello, 911 I Need Help”: Know How to Identify Post Birth Warning Signs Webinar
January 25 at 1 PM
Most women who give birth recover without any problems. But any woman can have complications after the birth of a baby. Learn how to recognize the warning signs of a post-birth complication with maternal health expert Shelby Pitts, DNP, RN, WHNP-BC.
Virtual
Cost: Free
Sponsoring Facility: RWJBarnabas Health
Understanding Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders Webinar
January 26 at 10:30 AM
Perinatal mood and anxiety disorders are one of the most common complications of pregnancy and childbirth, yet many of us don’t know what signs and symptoms to look for. Join us for a conversation with maternal mental health expert Lisa Tremayne, RN, PMH-C,CBC.
Virtual
Cost: Free
Sponsoring Facility: RWJBarnabas Health
Postpartum Maternal Morbidity and Its Impact on Quality of Life
January 26 at 2 PM
Moderated by Patricia D. Suplee, PhD, RNC-OB, FAAN, director of professional education and research at the Central Jersey Family Health Consortium, this panel discussion includes speakers Jessica Montalto, a perinatal mood and anxiety disorders survivor, and Vu-An Foster, MPH, founder of Life After 2 Losses. Please register for this event.
Virtual
Cost: Free
Sponsoring Facility: Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School RWJBarnabas Health
Community Engagement with POST-BIRTH Warning Signs Education: Collaborating with Healthcare Providers from Federally Qualified Health Centers, Prenatal Clinics, and Family Success Centers
Thursday, Jan. 27 at 1 PM
This special session features speakers Patricia D. Suplee, PhD, RNC-OB, FAAN, director of professional education and research at the Central Jersey Family Health Consortium, and Jamie Agunsday, MA, BSN, RNC-OB, nurse abstractor at Central Jersey Family Health Consortium. Please register for this program.
Virtual
Cost: Free
Sponsoring Facility: Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School RWJBarnabas Health
VIRTUAL Seminars on Maternal Health and Safety
In conjunction with Maternal Health Awareness Day in New Jersey— the first state to formally recognize maternal health, safety, and mortality issues with an annual event—Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey; RWJBarnabas Health; The Tara Hansen Foundation; and the Central Jersey Family Health Consortium is hosting a series of virtual seminars focusing on various issues related to maternal health and safety.
Virtual
Cost: Free
Programs for new moms
Healthy Cooking on a Budget
January 5 at 1 PM
Learn to make a healthy meal for a family of 4 for $10.
Virtual
Cost: Free
Molly.fallon@rwjbh.org
Sponsoring Facility: Newark Beth Israel Medical Center
Virtual Mommies Moods Group (Cooperman Barnabas)
January 7, 14, 21, 28 at 11 AM
Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center offers free Zoom Support Groups for expecting and new moms facilitated by Lauren Meisels, Ph.D. Mommies Moods Group focuses on mother-care rather than child-care. Discussions address anxiety, depression, irritability, and feeling scared and overwhelmed by the transition to motherhood during the pandemic.
Virtual
Cost: Free
Sponsoring Facility: Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center
Virtual Breastfeeding Support Group
January 10, 17, 24 from 12 PM-1 PM
Do you have questions about breastfeeding? We are pleased to offer our communities a safe place for new and expecting moms to connect online. Our International Board Certified Lactation Consultants will provide guidance and answer questions about latch issues, breast/nipple pain, milk supply concerns, pumping, supplementation, returning to work, and weaning in a friendly virtual environment. Don’t let breastfeeding challenges discourage you during COVID-19. We are here to support you along your breastfeeding journey. For more information and the link to participate in the group, please register online.
Virtual
Cost: Free
Sponsoring Facility: Clara Maass Medical Center, Community Medical Center, Jersey City Medical Center, Monmouth Medical Center, Newark Beth Israel Medical Center, Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital New Brunswick, Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Somerset, RWJBarnabas Health, Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center
Virtual New Moms’ Circle Support Group (Cooperman Barnabas)
January 10, 17, 24, 31 at 10 AM
Saint Barnabas Medical Center offers free Zoom Support Groups for expecting and new moms facilitated by Lauren Meisels, Ph.D. New Moms Circle provides an opportunity for moms to discuss all facets of becoming a mother during this precarious time. Conversations generally focus on child-care topics but are dictated by the interests of the women attending the meeting. It’s an excellent opportunity for moms to connect and bond around a shared experience. New moms and their babies are welcome to participate occasionally or each week. A Breastfeeding Support Group follows at 11:30 AM. Please register online in the event of a cancellation (you only need to register once).
Virtual, Cooperman Barnabas Wellness Institute at Leon & Toby Cooperman JCC MetroWest – 760 Northfield Avenue, West Orange, NJ 07052
Cost: Free
Sponsoring Facility: Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center
Virtual Breastfeeding Basics at Cooperman Barnabas
January 11 from 7 PM-9 PM
Women’s Health/Parent Education Department at Saint Barnabas offers a virtual prenatal workshop to help mothers achieve the confidence and skills necessary for a satisfying nursing experience once their baby is born. Partners should participate along with mom.
Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center, 94 Old Short Hills Road, Livingston, NJ 07039
Cost: $30
To be placed into a class and make payment, please call 973-322-5360 or submit the completed registration form by fax to 973-322-9784 or email Teresa.Lastella@rwjbh.org.
Sponsoring Facility: Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center
Virtual Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders Support Group
January 5, 12, 19, 26 at 11 AM
Are you a pregnant or new mom? Do you feel like motherhood isn’t what you thought it would be? Do you have feelings of anxiety, panic, rage, or sadness? You are not alone. You could be experiencing one of the most common childbirth complications, Perinatal Mood & Anxiety Disorders, this is temporary and treatable, and we can help. We are pleased to offer our communities a safe place and a judgment-free group for new and expecting moms to connect online. We understand that during this time of COVID-19, increased isolation and increased concerns about crowds/gatherings may be preventing you from reaching out for help. Join our virtual community, led by a Perinatal Mood Disorder certified specialist in this field, who can answer your questions, validate your feelings and concerns, and offer more resources if needed.
Virtual
Cost: Free
Sponsoring Facility: Clara Maass Medical Center, Community Medical Center, Jersey City Medical Center, Monmouth Medical Center, Newark Beth Israel Medical Center, Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital New Brunswick, Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Somerset, RWJBarnabas Health, Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center
Baby Care Basics (Monmouth Medical Center)
January 13 from 6:30 PM-8:30 PM
This program is designed to offer new parents information on the basic care of a new baby. Bathing, dressing, feeding, infant growth and development, safety, and other areas of concern to new parents are addressed. Instructors will also cover step-by-step instructions for basic infant CPR and choking issues. You’ll receive an access code for videos on all of the topics covered in this class for the 2-hour zoom meeting with the instructor for Q&A (view of all videos will be required before the session).
Virtual
Cost: $50
(732) 923-5024
Breastfeeding Today (Monmouth Medical Center)
January 8 from 10 AM-12 PM
Breastfeeding offers many health benefits to babies and their mothers. This class introduces prospective mothers and fathers to breastfeeding by providing information through an informal discussion on the process and techniques of breastfeeding. Topics include the advantages of breastfeeding, how to prepare and get started concerns of working mothers, and the role of the family. A Certified Lactation Consultant teaches this class. They will send you the booklet with the code to access videos, including milk production, hunger cues, latch, storing breast milk, and more. A 2-hour Zoom meeting with the Lactation Consultant for Q&A will occur (viewing all videos will be required before the session).
Virtual
Cost: $50
(732) 923-5024
Baby’s First Foods
January 26 from 1 PM-2 PM
A virtual class on what to feed a baby in the first year, and more.
Virtual
Cost: Free
Molly Fallon Dixon, MS, RDN (973) 726-7371 or Email: molly.fallon@rwjbh.org
Sponsoring Facility: Children’s Hospital of New Jersey Newark Beth Israel Medical Center
RWJBarnabas Health Medical Group
Breastfeeding Classes at Jersey City Medical Center
January 31 from 6:30 PM-8:30 PM
The program will include two hours of combination lectures and movie presentations. The class is held monthly. Topics include: How breastfeeding works, latching on and positioning when to feed your baby, how much is enough, and breast care. You must fill out the registration and send payment at least two weeks before the class date. The link will be sent before the start of class.
Virtual
Cost: $35
Eufemia Rios RN, Childbirth Educator, (201) 915-2365 or Email: Eufemia.rios@rwjbh.org
Sponsoring Facility: Jersey City Medical Center
Prenatal programs for moms-to-be
National Maternal Health Awareness Day: Positive Pandemic Pregnancies
January 19
Learn about the importance of prenatal care, how to keep mom and baby well amid COVID-19, how to keep baby well should mom test COVID positive, if a mother can breastfeed COVID positive, the recommended wellness care, the benefits of breastfeeding, and prevention strategies.
Virtual
Cost: Free
Sophia Viamonte, RN-BSN, International Board-Certified Lactation Consultant
Sponsoring Facility: Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Somerset and offered in collaboration with Friends Health Connection
Cesarean Delivery Preparation (Cooperman Barnabas)
January 20
Women’s Health/ Parent Education at Cooperman Barnabas offers this virtual two-hour class for parents about having a cesarean birth and how to care for their newborn.
Virtual
Teresa Lastella, (973) 322-5360 or Teresa.Lastella@rwjbh.org
Sponsoring Facility: Barnabas Health Ambulatory Care Center Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center
Prenatal Yoga with Ignite One
January 8, 15, 22, 29 at 12 PM
Gentle Yoga for expecting moms. Pre-registration is required.
Virtual
Cost: Free
Molly Fallon Dixon, MS, RDN, (973) 926-7371 or email: molly.fallon@rwjbh.org
Sponsoring Facility: Newark Beth Israel Medical Center
Childbirth Education Classes at Jersey City Medical Center
January 10, 12, and 19 at 6:30 PM
The program will include a set of 4 classes, 2 hrs. /class-combination lecture and movie presentations. Topics will include: Third Trimester Changes, Signs and Symptoms of Labor, Labor & Delivery “What to Expect,” “Pain Management,” and A tour of Labor & Delivery/Postpartum. You MUST fill out the registration and send payment at least two weeks before the class date. The link will be sent before the start of the course.
Virtual
Cost: $125.00
Eufemia Rios RN, Childbirth Educator, Class Registration: (201) 915-2365 or Email: Eufemia.rios@rwjbh.org
Sponsoring Facility: Jersey City Medical Center
Virtual Childbirth Preparation at Cooperman Barnabas
Multi-Part Course – January 5, 31 from 7 PM-9 PM
One-Day Course – January 9 and 15
Women’s Health/Parent Education at Cooperman Barnabas offers this virtual class for parents to help prepare them for pregnancy, labor, and delivery and provide instruction in baby care. This class addresses breathing patterns, relaxation, cesarean sections, epidural, review of the Maternity Center, and newborn care.
Virtual
Cost: $75
To be placed into a class and make payment, please call (973) 322-5360 or submit the completed registration form by fax to (973) 322-9784 or email to Teresa.Lastella@rwjbh.org.
Sponsoring Facility: Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center
Pregnancy Support Group
January 6, 13, 20, 27 from 12 PM-1 PM
Being pregnant is amazing—and at times, amazingly stressful. We get it. Pregnancy can leave you with a lot of questions. This is especially true with the unprecedented challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. Led by maternal health experts, our online community is a supportive and inclusive space to meet other pregnant women, ask questions and form meaningful connections.
Virtual
Cost: Free
Sponsoring Facility: Clara Maass Medical Center, Community Medical Center, Jersey City Medical Center, Monmouth Medical Center, Newark Beth Israel Medical Center, Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital New Brunswick, Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Somerset, RWJBarnabas Health, Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center
Childbirth Preparation Class (Monmouth Medical Center)
January 9 from 10 AM-1 PM
This program will focus on what to expect during labor and birth, anesthesia choices, relaxation, breathing techniques, and coping strategies. It will also address the immediate postpartum period. A booklet with an access code will be mailed to you. With this code, you will access videos on all the above topics. A 3-hour zoom meeting will take place for the Q&A session and practice breathing techniques with the instructor.
Virtual
Cost: $100
(732) 923-5024
Prenatal Nutrition 101
January 21 from 1 PM-2 PM
A virtual class with all the nutrition information you need to know for moms-to-be. Please register online.
Virtual
Cost: Free
Molly Fallon Dixon, MS, RDN (973) 926-7371 or Email: molly.fallon@rwjbh.org
Sponsoring Facility: Children’s Hospital of New Jersey Newark Beth Israel Medical Center
Infant Care Classes – Jersey City Medical Center
January 26 from 6:30 PM-8:30 PM
The program will include two hours of combination lectures and movie presentations. The class is held monthly. Topics include Physical Appearance, Diapering, Bathing, Cord care, and Special Procedures. You must fill registration and payment received at least two weeks before the class date. The link will be sent before the start of class.
Virtual
Cost: $35
Eufemia Rios RN, Childbirth Educator, (201) 915-2365 or Email: Eufemia.rios@rwjbh.org
Sponsoring Facility: Jersey City Medical Center
Additional Program
Wise Women – Conversations Around Healthcare Decisions
January 27 from 1:30 PM-2:30 PM
As we age, the twists and turns of life challenge us to remain positive, stay engaged, find new meaning and grow in wisdom. This program is in a discussion group format.
Location: RWJ Fitness & Wellness, 3100 Quakerbridge Road, Hamilton, NJ 08619
Cost: Free
Sponsoring Facility: Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Hamilton
This post is sponsored by RWJBarnabas Health to help make every #NJMOM her healthiest.
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