As events of all sizes are canceled, restaurants close their dining areas, and officials ask the public to stay home as much as possible; anxiety spreads at the uncertainty about what will happen next. For a woman carrying a baby at this time, your stress may be even greater as you wonder how this virus could affect you and the child.
Focusing on facts during this time is the best practice for expectant mothers. Here are three facts about COVID-19 and pregnancy
- Health professionals recommend the same behavior for pregnant women as the general public. You should be vigilant in washing hands frequently and thoroughly. You should avoid touching your face as much as possible (remembering that touching your face is a habit that will take practice to stop). You should practice social distancing as much as possible.
- Research is limited on the effect COVID-19 has on pregnancy. At this time, the CDC suggests that as with similar viruses, pregnant women may have an increase in the risk of some infection. As is always recommended in pregnancy, you should take care to protect yourself from illness.
- No evidence has shown that pregnant women with COVID-19 pass the virus to the baby. Although the research is limited to few cases, babies that have been born from women with the virus have not tested positive for the virus (nor have the amniotic fluid and breastmilk).
When anxieties threaten your peace in this time, focus on the things that you can control. Be proactive in following the recommended guidelines for avoiding this illness. Do things that promote peace and joy in your life which are conducive to good health.
Continue to monitor updated information as the research expands!
Sources:
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prepare/pregnancy-breastfeeding.html
https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/pregnant-and-worried-about-the-new-coronavirus-2020031619212