Pregnancy During COVID – Know How to Stay Safe.The feeling of bringing a new life into this world is a beautiful one and one that mothers are extra cautious about since they want nothing but the best for their baby. They are most concerned about prenatal care to avoid any obstacle in their path that may cause anxiety.
During these unprecedented times, one is definitely concerned about the safety measures which need to be meticulously followed during the prenatal period. To begin with, the expectant mother must stay indoors as it is the safest. The members of the family who go out must wash their hands and sanitize before coming in contact with her. She must cough and sneeze into her elbow and use disposable tissues whenever required.
Regular check-ups require visits to the hospital or clinic for which a protective face shield, three layered mask, and gloves are a must. Immediate sanitization after touching hospital surfaces is a must. She must also change into fresh clothes on reaching home. However, the new normal has also allowed for prenatal appointments to be carried out just as effectively by a gynecologist online. Therefore, unless absolutely necessary, most doctor appointments at the clinics should be avoided.
An expectant mother must avoid contact with anyone showing symptoms, avoid non-essential use of public transport, and definitely work from home. She must avoid going to small or large gatherings. Even family gatherings like a baby shower are a strict no as there may be asymptomatic people carrying the virus.
Pregnancy during COVID-19 can cause immense stress and fatigue because of the possibility of contracting the virus. All pregnant women, including those who are confirmed or suspected of COVID-19 infections, must get quality care before, during, and after childbirth. If COVID-19 is suspected or confirmed, caregivers and hospital authorities should take all appropriate precautions to reduce the risks of infection.
A pregnant woman is more vulnerable to being affected by the virus and hence must be doubly cautious and keep herself away from the infected people. She can be prone to the common flu more than regular women. Hence they are encouraged to get a flu vaccination. Although most recover quickly, flu can be serious for some mothers and their babies. However, the vaccination is safe at all stages of pregnancy.
Although there are few cases of COVID-19 passing on from mother to baby, doctors recommended having all newborns of COVID 19 positive mothers, tested for COVID 19 in order to deal with postnatal care.
There have been reports of people with low vitamin D being at an increased risk of serious respiratory complications if they develop COVID. It is always better to supplement with Vitamin D capsules. But note that no confirmed reports tell us that Vitamin D deficiency can cause COVID.
Pregnant women must watch their weight as obesity can make them more vulnerable to the virus. Women with a history of hypertension and diabetes must take extra precautions with the help of their doctors.
Pregnant women are advised to stay hydrated and drink sufficient amounts of water. This can reduce the risk of blood clots. They most definitely need to stay active and continue the regular chores and exercises unless advised otherwise by their gynecologists.
They must also avoid touching their face, eyes, and nose as much as possible. It is also essential to get enough sleep during pregnancy. Good sleeping habits help in enhancing body immunity and keep one energetic. Sleep is also an absolute necessity for the baby in the womb.
One thing is certain, panic can lead to unnecessary anxiety, so pregnant women must know that help is close at hand at all times. There is no need to panic. She must stay in virtual touch with family that she cannot visit, read good books, and think positive. It is the best time to bond with the unborn child and take care of oneself.