Pregnant women should always take steps to protect themselves from illness. While changes in a woman’s body during pregnancy can heighten the chance for illness, it is not known at this time if pregnancy specifically increases COVID-19 risks.
If you are pregnant right now, remain in touch with your health care professionals who are providing your prenatal care. They will be able to provide the best measures you can take to protect yourself from getting sick with COVID-19.
Have more questions regarding COVID-19 and pregnancy? We’ve compiled a few here, along with answers to help you.
Can COVID-19 pass from a mother to a newborn or fetus?
It is not confirmed that COVID-19 is a risk to an unborn or newborn baby. Additionally, there is no evidence yet that any problems experienced during a pregnancy or delivery were caused by the virus if the mother tested positive for COVID-19. At this time there is no evidence that mothers who test positive for COVID-19 face increased risk of miscarriage.
Should pregnant women cancel baby shower or babymoon plans?
To help stop the spread of COVID-19, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is currently recommending that everyone avoid gathering in large groups. This means staying at home and away from others unless necessary. Thus, pregnant women should not attend or host parties of any kind at this time.
As for travel, the CDC is currently recommending against any unnecessary travel. Many areas of our country are experiencing community spread of COVID-19. Plus, crowded places such as airports and airplanes are prime environments where this virus can spread. It is safest to stay home.
What steps can pregnant women take for protection against COVID-19?
Pregnant women can take the same steps to protect themselves as other members of their community. These steps include social distancing, avoiding people who are sick, frequent hand washing, and remembering to cover sneezes and coughs with a tissue or elbow.
Which birthing method is safest?
Each birthing method poses its own individual risks, but at this time neither C-sections nor vaginal births are known to pose additional risks due to COVID-19.
Can COVID-19 spread through breastfeeding?
COVID-19 has not been detected in breast milk. However, there is also no official confirmation of whether it can pass to a child through breast milk. Mothers should speak with their health care providers to determine the best decision regarding breastfeeding.
Mothers who are sick with COVID-19 can take steps to prevent the spread of the virus to an infant. These steps include washing their hands before touching their child and wearing a face mask when breastfeeding. Pumping and having a healthy individual feed your child via a bottle is a way you can avoid direct contact.
Stay updated on what Bon Secours is doing related to COVID-19.
