Hospital to offer health ed./support programs

St. Barnabas Health Care System will offer the following health education programs in January at Monmouth Medical Center on Second Avenue in Long Branch:

+ Preparation for Childbirth on Jan. 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30 from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m.

The five sessions of childbirth education will include lectures on relaxation and breathing techniques and will cost $125 per couple.

To register call (732) 923-6990.

+ Positive and beautiful on Jan. 2 and 16 at 11 a.m.

The support group is for women diagnosed as HIV positive; to register call (732) 923-71-38.

+ Kids Need Support Too on Jan. 3 from 7 to 8 p.m.

The support group is for children and adolescents who have family members diagnosed with cancer or serious illnesses.

To register call (732) 923-6990.

+ Mother to Mother Support Group on Jan. 4, 11, 18 and 25 from 10 to 11:30 a.m.

The group is for new mothers to talk about what they are experiencing. New moms, newborns to 6 months and fathers are welcome to attend.

To register, call (732) 923-6990.

+ Stress-free Workshop: Challenging Irrational Thoughts on Jan. 9 from 7 to 9 p.m.

To register call 1-888-SBHS-123.

+ Monmouth Medical Center's Community Health Fair on Jan. 11 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Information will be provided at the event on health-related topics and will include free screening for blood pressure, skin scans, body composition, oral cancer and podiatry.