Handle Pregnancy With Ease During The Coronavirus (FAQs)

Pregnancy is a very special phase of a woman’s life. It is always full of excitement and anticipation. But as now our world is facing a pandemic Novel Coronavirus Outbreak (COVID-19), it becomes fearful, full of anxiety and uncertainty for expectant mothers. 

We, HunyHuny family has come-up with few FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) to learn more about how to protect yourself and your baby.

I am an expecting mother. What precautions should I take to keep myself safe in this COVID-19 outbreak?

According to recent research, pregnant women are not at a higher risk of COVID-19 infection than any other group of people. But due to undergoing changes in their bodies and immune system, pregnant women who are in their last trimester are usually at the risk of some respiratory infections. So, it is essential to take precautions.

Healthcare expert advises working on the following physical distancing measures-

• Don’t use public transport, avoid it as much as you possibly can.
• Try to work from home, as much as possible.
• Avoid gathering (both small and large), especially in closed or confined spaces that include your friends and family too.
• Avoid contact with the persons displaying symptoms of COVID-19. 
• Instead of going outside, use the telephone or online services to contact your obstetrician and other essential services.

Are prenatal check-ups safe to continue?

Nowadays, due to the Coronavirus outbreak as a precautionary measure many doctors are doing appointments by phone or online consultation, so that the actual prenatal check-ups (mother and baby’s growth) can be monitored without risking mother and her baby to the COVID-19 exposure. Modifications may also be made for individual patients depending on their respective conditions i.e., lower vs higher risk pregnancy. So, call your doctor and ask, how to continue your prenatal check-ups. What options are available for you and what will be the best and safest way for your condition.  Also, remember to continue receiving professional support and guidance with routine immunization after your child’s birth as it is very important. 

My due date is near. Can my partner or family members be with me when I give birth?

Yes. While policies vary by hospitals, only your husband is allowed with you for your support, as long as proper precautions are taken, such as wearing a mask and headcovers while in the delivery room after proper handwashing.

Will I pass the virus to my baby if I am COVID-19 positive?

It is still unknown if the virus can be passed from the mother to her baby during pregnancy. But according to recent research on Coronavirus, there were no signs of virus presence in vaginal fluid, cord blood, breastmilk, amniotic fluid, or the placenta. So, don’t worry, you just need to follow all the needed precautions to reduce the risk of COVID-19 infection as instructed by your healthcare provider. However, during your pregnancy or post-delivery, if you feel ill, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

Is it still safe to give birth in a hospital or a healthcare clinic during the COVID-19 outbreak?

The delivery place is usually depending on the woman, on her condition, and the healthcare system. As we are facing the coronavirus outbreak. Your Gynaec or Obstetrician would be the best person to guide you in choosing the safest hospital or nursing home for you explaining all the precautionary health measures being taken there to avoid COVID-19 infection. 

I have planned my delivery at the nearest hospital. What extra do I need to pack when I go to the hospital during this outbreak?

Generally, you don’t need to pack anything extra however take precautions well into consideration. Call your hospital beforehand to ask them if they need you to take anything extra based on your situation. Nowadays hospitals provide a complete list of things to carry while coming for delivery.

Due to the COVID-19 outbreak, I am feeling more anxious about my childbirth. How can I cope-up?

It is normal for you to feel anxious about your childbirth as this situation is asking for it. But don’t worry, you can cope-up with it by doing some simple exercises at home like stretching, breathing exercises, and meditation, etc. Make plans well in advance like whom to call when labor begins, who will support during labor hours and where, so that you don’t have any doubt to feel anxious. Relax and enjoy your pregnancy. Eat well, drink plenty of water, put hands on your belly, and connect with your baby. If you have any queries regarding yourself or your baby then call your doctor and get clarified about everything.

What precautions should I take to protect my newborn from the COVID-19 virus?

The best thing you can do to protect your baby from the COVID-19 virus is to minimize contact with other people. Stick with your immediate family and avoid any visitors right now. Make sure your children, follow proper social distancing norms with other children. Encourage your family members to maintain hygiene and take good care of themselves. Do remember to take all the basic precautions like proper handwashing before touching the newborn, regularly sanitizing frequently touched surfaces in your home, etc. We know it is a difficult time but try to see its positive side as use this quiet time for your family to bond with your newly added member and vice versa. 

I am infected by the COVID-19 virus. Is it still safe to breastfeed my baby?

Yes. It is safe to continue breastfeeding and it is the best thing a mother can do for her baby. As of now, there is no reported case where a baby got infected through breast milk or breastfeeding by an infected mother. But your baby can get the infection through contact, so follow social distancing norms, talk to your doctor and follow the instruction from them. For precaution, breastfeed your baby while wearing a mask and gloves also proper handwashing should be maintained. If you are too ill to breastfeed, express your milk, and feed your baby via a clean cup or spoon while maintaining the same precautions. 

Disclaimer: COVID-19 is a new virus and research into it is ongoing. This information is based on the healthcare provider’s advice as per current COVID-19 findings.

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