“Pregnancy is going to alter your thinking forever; it’s going to make you realize how fragile and important life is and why it must be protected at all costs.”
You may have been waiting for this day for a long time or greatly surprised it has come so soon. Nevertheless, most mothers-to-be probably never expected to experience a pandemic, let alone be pregnant during one. And the reality has been different than they could have even imagined – from FaceTiming what would be in-person ultrasounds to limitations on the number of loved ones allowed in a delivery room. If you are pregnant and worried about coronavirus aka COVID-19, or are worried about a loved one who is, you are not alone. How She Told Him is sharing resources and information from medical professionals to support mothers-to-be who are pregnant and worried about being at greater risk during these uncertain coronavirus times.
Are women who are pregnant during the COVID-19 pandemic at a greater risk for contracting the virus?
This is one of the most frequently asked questions by pregnant women and families. Based on various medical reports and scientific data, Dr. Phillip Hein, the chair of OBGYN services for Wake Forest Baptist Health in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, explains that it does not appear to be the case. He had spoken to BestHealth on pregnancy and COVID-19 concerns and explained that women who are pregnant most likely have the same chances of contracting the virus as any other women who are not pregnant.
Could I pass a virus to my child when breastfeeding?
There are also worries about the health status once a newborn baby is born. Some families are unsure whether their unborn child will be affected and, if so, in what capacity. Others fear the virus could be passed on to their child through breastfeeding and breastmilk. Although more research is needed, at this time it is not believed that COVID-19 is transferred from a mother to a baby through breastmilk. Studies show that the virus known as influenza or the flu, for example, does not spread to infants who are breastfeeding. Even with the Flu, mothers are encouraged to breastfeed, since their milk contains antibodies that can protect her child.
Should I cancel or postpone my doctor’s appointment?
The short answer is – no. During COVID-19, many people have opted to delay or avoid visiting the doctor altogether. However, delaying care could exacerbate symptoms or cause health concerns to go unseen, especially for high-risk patients. Whether pregnant or not, it is always important to continue your routine healthcare appointments, unless instructed otherwise by your physician. The current COVID-19 landscape has created opportunities for video visits (learn more about telehealth or telemedicine from Mayo Clinic), allowing patients and physicians to connect virtually, when an in-person visit is not needed or impossible.
COVID-19 Resources:
Although current research shows it is rare that the virus would be transmitted to a baby, there is still more to learn about COVID-19 and its impact. However, there are helpful resources to help answer some of your most pressing questions. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, has provided some helpful information for pregnant women. And, the BabyCenter has provided a FAQ, with questions gathered from parents-to-be, that has been medically reviewed by Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine.
At the end of the day, staying home, social distancing, washing your hands, and wearing a mask are all ways to help prevent the spread of the virus. And, it is always best to discuss COVID-19 safety tips and concerns with your OBGYN and clinical team, as they may suggest extra precautions when pregnant during a pandemic.
How She Told Him is committed to providing information to support parents-to-be and families. Whether you are planning a socially distanced baby shower or needing help with preparing your baby registry, How She Told Him is here for you!
Note: This is information is not medical advice or meant to diagnose. Please consult your physician regarding any specific concerns or medical needs.
