In Connecticut, the Department of Public Health (DPH) is the state agency responsible for overseeing and implementing maternal and child health programs. Specifically, the Division of Family Health within the DPH manages programs aimed at improving the health of mothers, children, and families in the state.
Contact Information:
Family Health Section,
Physical address: 410 Capitol Avenue
P.O. Box 340308
Hartford, CT 06134-0308
Phone: 860-509-8000
Email: ctwic@ct.gov
Hours of Operation: Monday through Friday, 8:30a.m. to 4:30 p.m., excluding state holidays. For more information, visit their official website.
Connecticut offers a variety of maternal and child health programs aimed at enhancing the well-being of women, infants, children, and families. Key initiatives include:
1. Nurturing Families Network:
An evidence-based home visiting program that supports expectant and new parents through education on child development, parenting, and health guidance. It also connects families with community resources.
2. Children and Youth with Special Health Care Needs Program:
This program provides care coordination services, linking families to specialists and community resources, and assisting with transitions to adult healthcare services.
3. Maternal, Child, and Adult Health Program in Hartford:
Offers preventive health assessments, education, and anticipatory guidance to uninsured or underserved families, including physical examinations, immunizations, and lead poisoning prevention.
4. Local Health Department Initiatives:
Municipal health departments, such as those in Greenwich, provide services including health education, screenings, and support for expectant and new parents to promote maternal and child health.
5. Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Program:
The WIC program provides nutrition assistance to low-income pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and children up to age 5. It offers food vouchers, nutrition education, and breastfeeding support to help families meet their nutritional needs.
6. Perinatal and Infant Health Program:
Aimed at improving birth outcomes and reducing infant mortality, this program offers education, screenings, and resources for expecting mothers. It also supports high-risk pregnancies with additional healthcare services.
7. Adolescent Health Program:
This program promotes the health of adolescents through health education, counseling, and screenings. It covers issues like sexual and reproductive health, mental health, and prevention of risky behaviors
8. Home Visiting Program:
Connecticut's Home Visiting Program offers home-based support for families with young children, especially those who are at high risk for poor health outcomes. It includes visits from trained professionals who provide parenting support, education, and resources to enhance family well-being.
9. Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System (PRAMS):
PRAMS is a surveillance program that collects state-specific, population-based data on maternal attitudes and experiences before, during, and after pregnancy. This data is used to improve maternal and child health programs.
10. Newborn Screening Program:
This program screens newborns for a variety of genetic, metabolic, and other health conditions that can lead to serious health issues if not detected early. Early intervention can improve health outcomes for affected infants.
11. Connecticut Children’s Medical Center (CCMC) Outreach Programs:
CCMC offers a variety of community outreach programs that support maternal and child health, including specialty clinics, pediatric care coordination, and family support services. These programs are particularly focused on addressing healthcare disparities and ensuring access to high-quality care for all families.
These programs collectively aim to ensure access to quality healthcare, support early childhood development, and address health disparities among Connecticut's families.
In Connecticut, various healthcare providers are involved in supporting expectant parents and offering different options for birth choices. These providers can include both medical professionals and non-medical professionals, each offering their expertise in maternal and child healthcare. They include;
Perinatal Providers
Obstetricians (OB/GYNs): They are medical doctors specializing in pregnancy, childbirth, and the female reproductive system. They typically provide comprehensive care throughout pregnancy, including prenatal visits, labor, delivery, and postpartum care. OB/GYNs are the primary providers for hospital births and are equipped to handle complex or high-risk pregnancies. In the state of Connecticut, their key services are: Prenatal care and screenings; labor and delivery assistance (including cesarean sections); and postpartum care and family planning.
Notable OB/GYN Providers in Connecticut:
- Yale Medicine Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Hartford HealthCare Women's Health
Certified Nurse Midwives (CNMs): CNMs are advanced practice registered nurses who specialize in childbirth and women's health. They are trained to provide care throughout pregnancy, assist during labor and delivery, and offer postpartum support. CNMs typically support home births, freestanding birth centers, and hospital births, with an emphasis on a more natural approach to childbirth. In the state of Connecticut, their key services are: Prenatal care; Labor and delivery assistance (can attend home births, birthing centers, and hospital births); and Postpartum care and breastfeeding support.
Notable CNM Providers in Connecticut:
- Women’s Health Associates of Connecticut
- Midwifery Care of Connecticut
Certified Professional Midwives (CPMs): CPMs are trained professionals who provide care during pregnancy and childbirth, often in home birth settings or birth centers. They are not registered nurses, but they have specific training in midwifery and provide a more personalized and natural approach to childbirth. In the state of Connecticut, their key services are: Prenatal care and education; attending home births or birth center births; and postpartum support and breastfeeding education
Notable CPM Providers in Connecticut:
- CT Midwives
Family Physicians (Family Doctors): Some family physicians provide prenatal care and deliver babies, particularly in smaller or rural communities. They offer comprehensive care to individuals of all ages, and some family doctors are trained in obstetrics to support low-risk pregnancies and deliveries. In Connecticut, their key services are: Prenatal care and delivery (typically for low-risk pregnancies); postpartum care; and general healthcare for the family
Notable Family Physicians in Connecticut:
- Hartford Healthcare Family Medicine
- Fairfield Family Medicine
Other Perinatal Professionals:
Doulas (Labor and Postpartum Doulas): Doulas are non-medical professionals who provide emotional, physical, and informational support before, during, and after childbirth. While they do not provide medical care, they play a crucial role in supporting the birthing person by offering comfort measures, relaxation techniques, and advocacy for the birth plan. In Connecticut, their key services are: Labor support, including emotional and physical comfort; assistance with childbirth education; and postpartum care, including breastfeeding support and help with newborn care
Notable Doula Providers in Connecticut:
- Connecticut Birth Network
- Doulas of Connecticut
Pediatricians: They are healthcare providers specializing in the care of infants, children, and adolescents. While they are not typically involved in the birth process itself, they are essential after the birth, ensuring the newborn’s health and well-being. In Connecticut, their key services are: Newborn screenings and exams; immunizations and regular check-ups; and advice on infant care and development
Notable Pediatric Providers in Connecticut:
- Connecticut Children’s Medical Center
- Pediatric Associates of Hartford
Lactation Consultants: They are healthcare professionals trained to support mothers with breastfeeding. They help with breastfeeding techniques, troubleshooting common breastfeeding challenges, and providing advice on pumping and milk storage. In Connecticut, their key services are: Breastfeeding support and education, assistance with latch issues and milk supply, and pumping and milk storage advice
Notable Lactation Consultants in Connecticut:
- Lactation Consultants of Connecticut
- Connecticut Breastfeeding Coalition
Home Visitors: Programs like the Connecticut Home Visiting System (CHVS) and Nurturing Families Network offer home visiting services throughout Connecticut. These programs provide guidance on infant care, developmental milestones, breastfeeding support, and maternal health, particularly for first-time parents and families in underserved communities.
Behavioral Health Professionals: Connecticut's maternal mental health specialists offer support for conditions like postpartum depression and anxiety. Organizations such as Connecticut Women's Consortium and Connecticut Behavioral Health Partnership provide therapy, counseling, and psychiatric services for new and expectant mothers.
Urban and Rural Healthcare Support: Connecticut's compact geography facilitates access to care in both urban and rural settings. The Connecticut Department of Public Health works with regional health districts to ensure maternal and infant health services reach all communities. For underserved populations, federally qualified health centers like Community Health Center, Inc. offer comprehensive maternal care services.
Rural and Tribal Healthcare Support:
Connecticut's Native American communities, including the Mashantucket Pequot, Mohegan, Schaghticoke, Eastern Pequot, and Golden Hill Paugussett tribes, benefit from resources provided by the Connecticut Indian Health Council (CIHC) and the Connecticut Department of Public Health's Office of Health Equity. These organizations work to integrate traditional and modern care approaches to maternal and infant health.
With these comprehensive options, families across Connecticut can find the care and support they need, from specialized medical providers to community-based services, ensuring a safe and healthy start for both parents and babies.
Hospitals:
Connecticut hospitals offer family-centered care with private rooms designed for labor, delivery, and recovery, providing a comfortable environment for families with quality and compassionate care. Learn more
Birth Centers:
Connecticut birth centers provide a comfortable, low-intervention setting with experienced midwives. Learn more
Home Births:
Licensed midwives in Connecticut offer home birth options for families who prefer a private and familiar setting. Learn more
In Connecticut, various health insurance options are available to help cover the costs of pregnancy and childbirth care. These include private insurance plans, Medicaid, and specialized programs aimed at ensuring expectant parents have access to necessary medical services. Here are some key programs and services:
1. State Plans and Programs
Connecticut's Medicaid program (HUSKY Health) provides comprehensive health coverage for low-income pregnant individuals and children. Services covered include:
- Prenatal and postpartum care
- Delivery services
- Hospital stays
- Infant care up to one year after birth
Eligibility is based on income and household size. Pregnant women may qualify for HUSKY A (traditional Medicaid) or HUSKY B (Connecticut's Children's Health Insurance Program). Learn more and apply at Connecticut's DSS HUSKY Health Program website.
HUSKY B (Connecticut's Children's Health Insurance Program): Offers coverage for pregnant individuals and children up to age 19 who don't qualify for HUSKY A but still need assistance. It provides comprehensive care, including prenatal visits, ultrasounds, and delivery services.
2. Employer-sponsored Plans
Pregnant consumers can enroll in coverage through an offer of employer-sponsored coverage (ESC) from their employer or a spouse's job. Many employers in Connecticut offer health insurance that includes maternity and newborn care. Coverage typically includes prenatal visits, ultrasounds, labor and delivery, and postpartum care.
3. Health Insurance Marketplace
Through Access Health CT (Connecticut's Health Insurance Marketplace), pregnant women can explore various health insurance plans that cover pregnancy and childbirth. Under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), all marketplace insurance plans are required to cover maternity and newborn care as essential health benefits. Connecticut residents can compare and enroll in plans through Access Health CT.
4. Private/Individual Insurance Plans
Private health insurance purchased outside the marketplace may also provide coverage, though benefits can vary.
Parent's health insurance plan (if that plan offers dependent coverage) can also cover pregnant dependents before their 26th birthday. Employer-sponsored coverage for dependents usually ends during the month of the child's 26th birthday. If the dependent is covered under their parent's Marketplace plan, the dependent can stay on their parent's plan until December 31 of the year they turn 26.
5. Other Assistance Programs
Community Health Centers: Connecticut has numerous federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) that offer prenatal and maternity care services on a sliding fee scale based on income. Examples include Community Health Services in Hartford and Fair Haven Community Health Care in New Haven.
Nurturing Families Network: While not an insurance program, this initiative provides support services to first-time parents, including assistance with accessing healthcare. Learn more at the Connecticut Office of Early Childhood
Women, Infants, and Children (WIC): Provides nutritional support and healthcare referrals for pregnant women and new mothers. Visit the Connecticut WIC Program for more information.
Healthy Start Program: Focuses on reducing infant mortality and improving maternal and infant health outcomes in communities with high rates of infant mortality. Learn more at Connecticut Healthy Start.
For assistance navigating insurance options, Connecticut residents can contact local health navigators or Certified Application Counselors through Access Health CT or the Connecticut Association for Healthcare Access.
Pregnancy, Parenting, and Work Rights in Connecticut
These laws and programs aim to support pregnant workers and new parents as they balance work and family responsibilities in Connecticut.
Pregnancy and Work:
Protection Against Pregnancy Discrimination:
Under the federal Pregnancy Discrimination Act (PDA), employers with 15 or more employees cannot discriminate against pregnant workers. Employers must treat pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions the same as any other temporary medical condition in terms of hiring, firing, pay, job assignments, and promotions.
The Connecticut Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities (CHRO) enforces protections against pregnancy discrimination for workers in the state. Employers cannot mistreat pregnant employees or force them to take leave if they are still able to perform their jobs.
Workplace Accommodations:
Federal law (PDA and the Americans with Disabilities Act, or ADA) may require reasonable accommodations for pregnancy-related conditions.
The federal Pregnant Workers Fairness Act provides groundbreaking protections for pregnant, postpartum, and pumping workers, giving them the right to accommodations at work that help them keep their jobs and protect their health.
Connecticut's Fair Employment Practices Act requires employers to provide reasonable accommodations for pregnancy, childbirth, or related conditions unless it imposes an undue hardship. This includes Connecticut's Pregnant Workers Fairness Act, which applies to all employers with three or more employees.
Accommodations may include extra breaks, flexible scheduling for doctors' appointments, time off to recover from childbirth or miscarriage, light duty, remote work, and more.
Workplace Safety for Pregnant Workers:
Employers must ensure a safe working environment for pregnant employees. Employees can report unsafe conditions to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) or the Connecticut Department of Labor.
Taking Time Off Work:
Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA):
Under federal law, eligible employees can take up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave per year for childbirth, bonding with a new child, or serious medical conditions (including pregnancy-related conditions). Eligibility requirements include:
Working for an employer with 50+ employees within 75 miles;
Having worked for the employer for at least 12 months.; and
Logging at least 1,250 hours in the past year.
Connecticut Family and Medical Leave Act (CTFMLA):
Connecticut's FMLA provides more expansive protections than federal law and applies to employers with one or more employees. As of January 1, 2022, eligible employees can take:
Up to 12 weeks of leave in 12 months; and
Two additional weeks for serious health conditions resulting in incapacitation during pregnancy
Learn more at Connecticut Paid Leave
Paid Family and Medical Leave:
Connecticut has implemented a Paid Family and Medical Leave program that provides income replacement for workers who need time off for qualifying reasons, including pregnancy, childbirth, and bonding with a new child.
Eligible employees can receive up to 12 weeks of paid leave at up to 95% of their weekly pay (capped at 60 times the minimum wage).
Pregnancy Leave:
Connecticut employers must allow pregnancy-related leave if they offer medical or sick leave for other conditions and pregnant employees are entitled to reasonable accommodations under state law.
Returning to Work with a Baby:
Break Time for Nursing Mothers:
Under the federal Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) and the PUMP for Nursing Mothers Act, employers are required to provide:
Reasonable break times for nursing parents to pump breast milk for up to one year after birth;
A private, non-bathroom space for expressing milk; and
Connecticut law provides additional protections, stating that employers must provide reasonable time each day for expressing breast milk and make reasonable efforts to provide a room or location where the employee can express milk in private.
Breastfeeding-related Rights:
Connecticut law explicitly protects a mother's right to breastfeed in public places and prohibits discrimination against breastfeeding mothers.
The Connecticut Breastfeeding Coalition provides resources and support for breastfeeding parents.
Parental Rights for Sick or Family Leave:
- If your child or family member has a serious health condition, you may qualify for leave under FMLA, CTFMLA, or Connecticut's Paid Family and Medical Leave program to provide care.
Workplace Protections for New Parents:
Equal Pay:
Connecticut's Equal Pay Act ensures equal pay for comparable work, regardless of gender or parental status.
Employment Termination:
Employers cannot terminate or retaliate against employees for taking protected leave or requesting pregnancy-related accommodations.
Job Protection:
FMLA, CTFMLA, and Connecticut's Paid Family and Medical Leave program guarantee that employees can return to their same or equivalent position after taking parental leave.
Support for Parents in Connecticut:
Childcare Assistance:
Connecticut offers the Care 4 Kids program to help working parents with childcare costs.
Temporary Family Assistance (TFA):
Provides financial support to low-income families, including those with new babies.
Flexible Work Policies:
Some Connecticut employers may voluntarily offer flexible work arrangements, remote work, or additional paid parental leave as part of their benefits.
These laws and programs aim to support pregnant workers and new parents as they balance work and family responsibilities in Connecticut.
Breastfeeding in Connecticut
Breastfeeding in Connecticut is supported by a variety of laws, programs, and resources aimed at ensuring parents can breastfeed their infants safely and comfortably, whether at home or in public.
Legal Protections for Breastfeeding
Exemptions from Public Indecency Laws and Jury Duty:
In Connecticut, parents have the legal right to breastfeed in any public or private location. There are no restrictions on where a parent can breastfeed, and the law ensures that breastfeeding mothers are exempt from public indecency laws and jury duty.
Right to Breastfeed in Public:
Connecticut’s breastfeeding laws specifically protect the right to breastfeed in places like restaurants, stores, public transportation, and other public spaces. Connecticut law mandates that mothers can breastfeed in any public or private place where they are authorized to be. Learn more: Connecticut Statutes on Breastfeeding.
Workplace Protections for Breastfeeding:
Connecticut law provides specific protections for breastfeeding employees. Employers are required to provide reasonable break times and a private, non-bathroom space for employees to express breast milk during working hours. These protections are aligned with the federal Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) and the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (PWFA), which apply to businesses with more than 50 employees.
Support for Breastfeeding Families
Connecticut Breastfeeding Coalition (CBC):
The Connecticut Breastfeeding Coalition is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting and supporting breastfeeding in the state. CBC provides resources, advocacy, and education to help families overcome breastfeeding challenges and create supportive environments for breastfeeding mothers. For more information, visit the Connecticut Breastfeeding Coalition.
WIC Program:
The Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program in Connecticut offers nutrition assistance to low-income pregnant and postpartum mothers, infants, and children. WIC provides breastfeeding education, counseling, and supplies like breast pumps to support breastfeeding mothers. For more details, visit the Connecticut WIC Program.
Lactation Support and Consultants:
Many hospitals and clinics in Connecticut, including the Yale New Haven Health and the Hartford HealthCare system, offer lactation consultant services to help new mothers with breastfeeding challenges. Lactation consultants provide one-on-one support, advice on proper latch and positioning, and guidance on managing breastfeeding difficulties. Learn more at: Yale New Haven Lactation Services.
Breastfeeding in Rural and Remote Communities
Telehealth and Mobile Support:
In rural and underserved areas of Connecticut, breastfeeding support is available through telehealth programs, which help reach mothers in more remote locations. This service allows families to access lactation support and consultation services online. To learn more, visit the Connecticut Telehealth Coalition
Local Resources and Peer Support:
In Connecticut, there are local breastfeeding support groups and peer counseling programs, particularly in rural and suburban areas. These community-based organizations offer culturally relevant breastfeeding information and peer support to new mothers. Programs like La Leche League Connecticut and Breastfeeding Connecticut are excellent resources for peer counseling and group support.
Education and Awareness
Connecticut offers numerous breastfeeding education programs for new parents, including hospital-based lactation classes, peer counselor programs, and educational materials available at clinics and online. These resources help prepare parents for the challenges of breastfeeding and offer ongoing support throughout the breastfeeding journey. To find resources, visit the Connecticut Department of Public Health Breastfeeding Resources.
For additional information, many hospitals and clinics across Connecticut, such as Saint Francis Hospital's Lactation Support and Hartford HealthCare Lactation Services, provide excellent lactation support to help ensure that every family has the tools and information they need to succeed.
In Connecticut, there are a variety of resources and programs dedicated to supporting safe sleep practices for infants and helping families access cribs or safe sleep spaces to ensure their baby’s well-being. These initiatives are designed to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and other sleep-related fatalities by providing education and offering safe sleep options.
Safe Sleep Guidelines
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and Connecticut health organizations recommend the following safe sleep practices:
- Place babies on their backs for every sleep.
- Use a firm mattress in a crib, bassinet, or play yard with no soft bedding, pillows, or toys.
- Share a room with your baby but avoid bed-sharing.
- Avoid overheating by dressing the baby in appropriate layers.
For more information on safe sleep practices, visit the Safe to Sleep® campaign: Safe to Sleep
Free or Low-Cost Cribs
Families in need of cribs or safe sleep spaces can access assistance through the following programs:
Connecticut Safe Sleep Program
Run by the Connecticut Department of Public Health (DPH), this program provides education and resources to families, including access to free or low-cost portable cribs for eligible families. Learn more about the program via the Connecticut Safe Sleep Program
Cribs for Kids Program
A national initiative that partners with local organizations in Connecticut to provide safe sleep education and distribute free cribs to families in need. For more information and to find a local partner in Connecticut, visit Cribs for the Kids - Partners
WIC Program
The Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program may offer safe sleep education and referrals for cribs to low-income families. To learn more about WIC in Connecticut, visit Connecticut WIC Program
Education and Support
Connecticut Children’s Safe Sleep Initiative
This program provides education, resources, and outreach to parents and caregivers across the state to promote safe sleep practices and reduce the risk of sleep-related infant deaths. Learn more via the Connecticut Children’s Safe Sleep Initiative
Local Health Departments
Connecticut’s local health departments offer safe sleep classes, consultations, and support for new parents to ensure infants sleep safely. Find a health department near you by clicking here
By following safe sleep practices and utilizing the available resources, families in Connecticut can create a secure sleeping environment for their babies, helping reduce the risks of sleep-related injuries or deaths.
Connecticut offers a range of resources and programs to provide housing support for pregnant women, mothers, and families in need. These initiatives are designed to ensure that families have a safe and stable living environment during critical times, particularly during pregnancy and the early stages of parenthood.
State and Local Housing Programs
Connecticut Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Programs
The Connecticut Department of Housing (DOH) provides various housing assistance programs for low-income families, including pregnant women and mothers with young children. These programs include:
- Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program (rent assistance)
- Public Housing
- Emergency Housing Assistance
For more information about housing programs, visit the Connecticut Department of Housing
Emergency Shelters and Transitional Housing, Nonprofit and Community-Based Assistance
The Women and Children’s Program (Yale-New Haven Health)
This program provides emergency housing and supportive services for pregnant women and families with children. The program offers case management, parenting support, and help with securing permanent housing.
The Columbus House (New Haven)
Provides emergency shelter and transitional housing for families, including pregnant women. They also offer job readiness programs, case management, and support services to help families secure stable housing. Learn more at: Columbus House
InterCommunity, Inc. (Hartford)
Offers emergency shelter, transitional housing, and support services for families and pregnant women in need. They also provide mental health services, case management, and workforce development programs. Visit the InterCommunity
Connecticut Home Visiting Programs (Supports for Pregnant Women & New Mothers)
Connecticut Home Visiting Programs
These programs provide home visits to pregnant women and new mothers to support maternal health, provide safe housing referrals, and promote infant well-being. These services are offered across the state through the Department of Public Health (DPH). To learn more, visit the Connecticut Home Visiting Program
Connecticut WIC (Women, Infants, and Children Program)
The Connecticut WIC program offers nutrition support, breastfeeding assistance, and referrals to housing assistance for low-income families. For more information, visit the Connecticut WIC Program
Other Resources
Connecticut 2-1-1
This is a free, confidential, 24/7 telephone service that connects individuals to essential community services, including housing assistance, shelters, and programs for pregnant women and families. The service provides information on food banks, medical services, counseling, and more. Call 2-1-1 or visit: Connecticut 2-1-1
These programs and resources allow pregnant women, mothers and families from Connecticut to utilize them to support them through critical times and maintain a safe and stable living environment during this time. These services are meant to guarantee that parents both can and do give way to a healthier, safer future for their children.
Pregnant women and mothers in Connecticut can access food assistance and nutrition education through various state and community programs aimed at improving their health and well-being. Here are the key resources available:
Food Assistance Program
Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Program
The WIC program provides supplemental nutrition assistance, breastfeeding support, and nutrition education to pregnant women, postpartum mothers, and children under five. WIC benefits include healthy foods, personalized nutrition counseling, and referrals to healthcare services.
Visit the Connecticut WIC Program for more information on eligibility and call 1-800-741-2142 for local office information.
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
SNAP offers monthly benefits to help low-income families purchase groceries. Pregnant women and mothers can apply for SNAP to ensure consistent access to nutritious foods for themselves and their families.
Visit the Connecticut SNAP for more eligibility information.
Connecticut Native American Health Program
This program offers nutrition education and support tailored to Native American communities in Connecticut. It includes culturally relevant dietary guidance and food assistance programs to support pregnant women and families.
Learn more about Native American Health Services in Connecticut.
Food Banks and Pantries
Local food banks and pantries across Connecticut provide emergency food assistance to families in need. Many partners with organizations to distribute fresh produce and other healthy food items.
Call Connecticut 2-1-1 or visit the Connecticut 2-1-1 website to find nearby resources.
Emergency and Community Support
The Salvation Army of Connecticut
Offers meal programs and food baskets for families in need, ensuring access to nutritious food for families facing financial hardships.
Connecticut 2-1-1
Provides referrals to food assistance and nutrition programs statewide. Call 2-1-1 or visit Connecticut 2-1-1 for more information.
Nutrition Education Programs
Farmers’ Market Nutrition Programs (FMNP)
This program provides vouchers to WIC participants and seniors to purchase fresh fruits and vegetables from approved farmers' markets. It promotes local, nutritious foods while supporting Connecticut farmers.
Cooking and Nutrition Education Programs
The Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP), run by the University of Connecticut Cooperative Extension, offers hands-on classes in meal planning, budgeting, and healthy cooking for low-income families.
Learn more about EFNEP Connecticut.
Many public health centers across the state also offer nutrition education as part of prenatal and parenting support, helping families make healthy food choices throughout pregnancy and beyond.
These programs and resources help pregnant women and mothers in Connecticut maintain healthy lifestyles by providing access to nutritious food and valuable nutrition education.
Pregnant women and mothers in Connecticut have access to various mental health and wellness resources to support emotional well-being during pregnancy and postpartum. These services aim to address challenges such as postpartum depression, anxiety, stress, and other mental health concerns while promoting a healthy transition to parenthood.
Crisis Support
National Maternal Mental Health Hotline
A 24/7 free and confidential support line for pregnant and postpartum women experiencing mental health challenges.
Call/Text: 1-833-943-5746.
Connecticut 2-1-1
Connecticut’s 24-hour crisis hotline offers support for emotional distress and mental health emergencies.
Call/Text: 2-1-1 or visit 2-1-1 Connecticut for more information.
Postpartum Support and Counseling
Postpartum Support International (PSI) - Connecticut
Offers support and resources for mothers experiencing postpartum depression, anxiety, and other perinatal mood disorders. PSI connects individuals to local support groups and trained professionals.
Visit PSI Connecticut or call the helpline at 1-800-944-4773.
Connecticut Behavioral Health
Provides comprehensive mental health services, including therapy for pregnant and postpartum women.
Visit Connecticut Behavioral Health for more information.
Therapy and Counseling Services
Some hospitals and medical centers in Connecticut offer mental health counseling for mothers experiencing perinatal mood disorders. Many licensed therapists in Connecticut specialize in perinatal mental health. You can search for local providers on directories like Psychology Today.
Public Health and Community Support Programs
Healthy Families Connecticut
Offers home visits, parenting support, and mental health resources to families during pregnancy and early childhood.
Learn more at Healthy Families Connecticut.
Nurse-Family Partnership - Connecticut
A free program pairing first-time mothers with registered nurses for guidance on maternal health, parenting, and mental wellness.
Visit the Nurse-Family Partnership in Connecticut.
Support Groups and Peer Support
La Leche League of Connecticut
Provides emotional support for breastfeeding mothers and helps address mental health challenges through community connections.
Mother-to-Mother Support Groups
Local community groups offer a safe space to discuss pregnancy and postpartum challenges while connecting with other mothers. Contact your local health center or WIC office for more details.
Connecticut Native American Tribal Health Programs
Provides culturally appropriate mental health care and wellness support to Connecticut’s Native American mothers, including talking circles and holistic approaches to wellness.
Learn more at Connecticut Native American Health Programs.
Wellness and Self-Care Programs / Mindfulness and Stress Management
Local community centers and organizations, such as yoga studios, offer prenatal yoga and mindfulness classes to support relaxation and emotional health.
Connecticut 2-1-1
Connects individuals to mental health and wellness resources tailored to their needs.
Call: 2-1-1 or visit 2-1-1 Connecticut.
These resources provide critical support for pregnant women and mothers in Connecticut, helping them manage mental health challenges and promote emotional well-being during pregnancy and postpartum.
Vaccinations for Pregnant Women
Vaccines during pregnancy are crucial in protecting both the mother and baby, providing immunity that is passed to the infant. The recommended vaccines include:
- Influenza (Flu) Vaccine: Safe at any stage of pregnancy and helps protect against seasonal flu.
- Tdap Vaccine: Protects against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (whooping cough). Administered between 27-36 weeks of pregnancy to help protect newborns from pertussis.
- COVID-19 Vaccine: Recommended for pregnant and breastfeeding women to reduce the risk of severe illness from COVID-19.
Vaccinations for Children
Routine childhood vaccinations are essential for protecting children from diseases like measles, polio, and chickenpox. Key vaccines for children include:
- Hepatitis B: At birth, 1-2 months, and 6-18 months.
- DTaP, Polio, MMR, and Varicella: Series administered throughout early childhood.
- HPV Vaccine: Recommended starting at age 11-12 to prevent human papillomavirus infections.
Where to Get Vaccinated or Vaccination Support:
Connecticut Vaccine Program (CVP)
The Connecticut Vaccine Program provides vaccines at no cost for children under 19 and certain eligible adults. You can access these vaccines at participating healthcare providers and local health departments.
Local Health Departments and Public Health Clinics
Local health departments provide vaccines for children, pregnant women, and adults. Contact your nearest center for low-cost or free vaccinations.
Find a local public health center: Local Health Departments in Connecticut.
Connecticut Immunization Program
For questions about vaccine schedules, locations, or eligibility, contact the Connecticut Immunization Program.
Phone: 860-509-7929
Visit: Connecticut Immunization Program.
Indian Health Services (IHS) Connecticut
Eligible Native American families can access vaccines through the IHS and tribal health organizations in Connecticut. For more information, contact local IHS-affiliated health services.
Families in Connecticut that follow vaccination recommendations and use these resources can be protected from preventable diseases to promote healthier pregnancies and the development of children.
Connecticut Newborn Screening Program
The Newborn Screening Program in Connecticut helps protect the health of babies by screening for rare but serious conditions that may not be immediately apparent at birth. A small blood sample is taken from the baby’s heel shortly after birth and tested for treatable disorders that could impact growth, development, or overall health. Early detection through this simple test ensures babies receive timely care, which can significantly improve outcomes. The program is provided by the Connecticut Department of Public Health and is a vital step in giving babies the healthiest start in life.
For more information about the Connecticut Newborn Screening Program, please contact:
Newborn Screening Program
Connecticut Department of Public Health
410 Capitol Avenue, MS#11NHS
Hartford, Connecticut 06134
Phone: 860-509-8100
Fax: 860-509-8113
E-mail: dph.newbornscreening@ct.gov
Connecticut Newborn Hearing Screening Program
The Connecticut Newborn Hearing Screening Program ensures that all newborns are screened for hearing loss shortly after birth, using quick and painless methods. Early detection of hearing loss allows for prompt interventions, such as hearing aids or therapy, to support healthy language and communication development. Families can access follow-up care and additional resources through the state’s Early Hearing Detection and Intervention (EHDI) Program, which provides support for infants and young children with hearing loss.
For more information about the Connecticut Newborn Hearing Screening Program, please contact:
Newborn Hearing Screening Program
Connecticut Department of Public Health
410 Capitol Avenue, MS#11NHS
Hartford, Connecticut 06134
Phone: 860-509-8087
E-mail: dph.hearing@ct.gov
Participation in these programs allows Connecticut families the ability to detect and intervene early for their babies to help them grow and develop to the best.
