A whirlwind of thoughts probably comes to mind as you approach the upcoming birth of your first child. Here are a few details you might not anticipate about the labor and delivery process.
The medical team at The Association for Women’s Health Care wants to help you navigate the overwhelming amount of information concerning the COVID-19 coronavirus.
The experienced OB/GYN specialists have been following the updates from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists regarding the coronavirus and pregnancy and have compiled some general information about what we know so far.
There’s no current information about specific health issues concerning COVID-19 and pregnancy, but pregnant women in general should be considered at a higher risk for any respiratory condition. There is still limited research about whether the mother can transmit COVID-19 to a fetus.
If you have recently traveled during your pregnancy, your provider at The Association for Women’s Health Care will need a detailed history of where you went and any known history of exposure to COVID-19 to determine if you need further testing.
While there is little information about whether a mother passes COVID-19 to the fetus during a pregnancy, there is research showing that infants born to mothers with COVID-19 haven’t tested positive for the virus.
There is also a small number of studies that indicated samples of breastmilk and amniotic fluids don’t contain the virus.
The primary concern for breastfeeding mothers is not so much transmitting the virus through the breastmilk but having COVID-19 spreading through any contact between the mother and nursing infant.
Spread of the virus to infants and children can occur from a cough or sneeze while breastfeeding or due to improper hand washing before preparing a bottle or using a breast pump.
Across the United States, mitigation efforts are underway to reduce the spread of COVID-19. These efforts largely include social distancing, a practice of staying away from large crowds and avoiding anyone who may have been exposed to the virus.
Along with people in general, pregnant women also need to focus on frequent handwashing with soap and water or an alcohol-based sanitizer. This is especially important for new mothers who are breastfeeding or using a breast pump to feed their child.
It’s also important that you practice proper hygiene if you sneeze or cough, using your elbow or a tissue to cover your mouth and nose then immediately washing your hands.
If you ever have questions or concerns about your general health or your pregnancy during these trying times, feel free to reach out to the staff at The Association for Women’s Health Care.
You should also contact your provider if you feel you have symptoms that may relate to COVID-19 such as:
As new developments filter in, The Association for Women’s Health Care physicians can recommend testing for the coronavirus and provide follow-up care that focuses on your health and the health of your baby.
You can contact the team by calling either the Chicago or Northbrook, Illinois, office of The Association for Women’s Health Care. You can also book an appointment online, or send a message to the team here on their website.
You Might Also Enjoy...
A whirlwind of thoughts probably comes to mind as you approach the upcoming birth of your first child. Here are a few details you might not anticipate about the labor and delivery process.
Being told that you have a high-risk pregnancy can add to the normal worry and anxiety during this special time. Find out how we determine whether your pregnancy is high risk and what it can mean to you and your unborn baby.
Advances in ultrasound technology have improved patient experiences and provided more accurate diagnoses. Find out how modern ultrasounds work and how they help to monitor pregnancies and the health of your body’s internal structures.
You can help maintain bone health with a balanced diet, adequate exercise, and healthy lifestyle. But having certain health conditions can threaten healthy bones and increase your risk of bone loss. Find out more about these risks.
Postpartum depression is a serious condition that can affect your ability to function as a new mother. Learn how feelings of sadness, anxiety, and hopelessness can affect both you and your baby.
Pregnancy can be difficult at any time, but staying healthy and comfortable during a winter pregnancy has unique challenges. Here’s what you can expect to encounter if you’re expecting this winter and tips for overcoming the challenges.