COVID-19 pandemic has got the world all worried. Pregnant women or their families are also expressing concerns about the impact COVID-19 might have on their or their baby’s health. Even in a normal situation, women are extra cautious during pregnancy. Being even more careful and enriching the self-care does good and can protect them from the infections.
During pregnancy, there may be slight changes or shifts in the way the immune system works (1). It does not mean that pregnant women are weak, but since there are two lives in one person, it is always better to be extra cautious. There is no wrong in considering them as a risk group to show more concern and care.
On the records, there is no substantial evidence that pregnant women may be at higher risk of COVID-19. But, they should follow the necessary protocols such as staying away from sick people, washing hands, not touching the face, wearing face masks, and maintaining physical distance or avoiding crowds.
Know more about other extra precautions that a woman must take during pregnancy:
• Coronavirus & Pregnancy: Why you Should Be Extra Cautious
Prenatal visits are essential as they ensure the safe health of the mother and the fetus. Instead, you can have more regular telehealth visits and update them regarding your health. However, if you have any abnormalities or have any severe pains or concerns, you can visit the doctor. But, make sure that you are very careful and follow the protocols and wear the best available PPE.
Yes. Many couples may have planned a babymoon as a memorable trip and the best getaway before the young one moves in. But, this is not the time.
COVID-19 has stagnated the world, and nations have closed their borders. You do not want to go and get stuck at their airport or in a foreign land during pregnancy. It may be a special moment you planned, but understand that traveling even with the best PPE makes you more prone to catching the infections.
Instead, you and your husband can plan for some fun activities and some alone time for yourself. Try and decorate your home in a way that could resemble the babymoon that you might have expected.
Not just babymoon, you must also cancel the baby shower. As the people who come in may be infected but are asymptomatic. Cancel any plans that involve gatherings or get-togethers.
Know more about other extra precautions that a woman must take during pregnancy:
• Coronavirus & Pregnancy: Why you Should Be Extra Cautious
• Why Pregnant Women Should Be Extra Cautious With Coronavirus
• How to Manage COVID-19 Anxiety During Pregnancy
• Can the World Control COVID-19?
Hospitals are very safe and minimize the risk of infections. They do evaluate necessary COVID-19 tests for anyone who enters the hospital. Even the medical staff do their best to mitigate the risk of diseases.
However, before doing so, one must make sure that there are necessary pieces of equipment to care for both the women and the baby. Disinfect the home before the mother reaches home and keep their room separate from the others in the family.
One more thing that you should do is make sure there are no complications, and you are in proper health. Once done, you can talk to the doctors and go home.
Since most hospitals are working to contain the COVID-19 spread, there are some changes in the way delivery wards usually work. Not more than one or two people may be allowed during the delivery. It even includes the postpartum stay. The situation may be upsetting, but it is the protocols we all must follow to avoid the risk of catching the infection.
So, make sure that there are at least two healthy family members who are available 24/7 by you. Also, make sure that there is a healthy caregiver who can take care of both the mother and child. Try and have one more healthy caregiver on your list, in case if the current caregiver gets sick or infected.
Giving birth is the most joyful moment both for mothers, family, friends, and even the extended family. You may feel like inviting everyone and sharing joy and enjoy happiness. But, you may have to postpone it.
Newborn children should be given extra care to avoid any infections. Even if you are sure that the family members are healthy, it is better not to allow them in the same house that you are living with your newborn. They may be healthy, but the spread is so vast that they may carry infections on their route, which no one can guarantee. Instead, you can have video chats and enjoy the blissful moments.
We all understand that there are high expectations during pregnancy. But, this COVID-19 may have shattered many plans that you had during pregnancy or post-delivery.
However, for the safety of the mother and the child, it is best to follow the protocols and avoid any meetings or gatherings that may make them more susceptible to catch the infections. Doctors and researchers around the globe are fighting hard to get rid of COVID-19. And soon you will be able to plan and enjoy all the fun activities.