Pregnancy and COVID19: What We Know And Don’t?

Some months ago, the only thing pregnant women had to worry about was prenatal care and keeping themselves healthy. Now with the coronavirus changing life as we know it, most mums-to-be are wondering how this affects them. You may have found yourself asking questions like: Are pregnant women, like people with underlying illnesses, more prone to getting the virus? Is the coronavirus fatal to pregnant women? Is it best to get hygiene products online? If you have, keep reading below for helpful answers to these questions.

Do pregnant women have a higher risk of getting the coronavirus?

While there is no proof that pregnant women are more prone to the virus than the general population, the numbers haven’t shown pregnant women getting infected in large groups. Therefore it can’t be said that pregnant women have a higher risk of getting the coronavirus.

What we know for sure is that pregnant women have a higher risk of becoming severely ill if infected with the virus, and that there are changes in a pregnant woman’s body that can increase the risk of infections.

 What about prenatal appointments?

Prenatal appointments are essential so you most likely will still be able to meet with your doctor for ultrasounds, genetic testing, and so on. Doctors will only put in extra efforts to ensure their offices are sterile and safe for tests. 

To reduce contact, however, some recommendations will be given via phone calls, like where to get hygiene products online and how to monitor your blood pressure.

Should birth plans be changed?

Hospitals may have doubled restrictions on attendees and visitors for delivery rooms but most will still carry out deliveries. So you don’t have to change your plans about birthing your baby in a hospital. 

While you might be worried about being in a hospital environment at this time, remember that doctors and midwives are professionals who do everything in their power to keep moms and babies healthy and safe.

Should pregnant women be worried about breastfeeding?

Based on the present studies (although limited to a small group of women), there is no proof that the coronavirus seeps into the breast milk. So if you are tested negative for the virus, you can proceed with breastfeeding your baby. However, if you are tested positive, it is recommended that you either wear gloves and masks when breastfeeding or pump your milk and have a non-infected person feed your baby. 

Some medical practitioners recommend that mothers with the virus stay away from their newly born and safely pump milk until they recover from the illness. WHO, on the other hand, says that as long as mothers take precautions, it is alright if they interact with their babies.

 

To reduce the risk of contracting the coronavirus, make sure you wash your hands frequently with soap and water. If you can stay home, do so, and only step out when necessary. For instance, you can get hygiene products online instead of at stores. Also, go to your doctor for any questions or concerns you may have!