Pregnant With Covid? What To Do
What Is Covid-19?
Covid-19 is a contagious respiratory illness caused by a novel coronavirus that first appeared in late 2019. It can cause mild to severe illness and in some cases, can be fatal. The virus is spread through contact with an infected person’s respiratory droplets, which can be produced when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. It is also possible to contract Covid-19 from touching contaminated surfaces or objects, and then touching your eyes, nose, or mouth.
What Are The Risks For Pregnant Women?
Pregnant women are not more likely to become ill from Covid-19 than other people. However, some evidence suggests that pregnant women may be more likely to have a severe illness from Covid-19 than women who are not pregnant. Pregnant women may also have a higher risk of preterm labor, preterm birth, and other pregnancy complications. It is important to discuss the risks of Covid-19 with your healthcare provider.
What Are The Symptoms Of Covid-19?
The most common symptoms of Covid-19 are fever, dry cough, and shortness of breath. Some people may also experience fatigue, body aches, runny nose, sore throat, nausea, and diarrhea. It is possible to have Covid-19 without any symptoms, so it is important to be aware of the risks and take precautions.
How Can I Protect Myself And My Baby?
The best way to protect yourself and your baby from Covid-19 is to follow the same safety measures that everyone else should be following. This includes:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Cover your nose and mouth with a cloth face cover when around others.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces.
- Stay at home as much as possible.
- Stay away from large groups of people.
- Stay at least six feet away from other people.
What Should I Do If I Think I Have Covid-19?
If you think you have Covid-19, it is important to contact your healthcare provider right away. Your healthcare provider will be able to advise you on how to get tested and what steps you should take to protect yourself and your baby. They will also be able to monitor you for any changes in your health.
Can Covid-19 Affect My Baby?
Preliminary research suggests that pregnant women infected with Covid-19 may be more likely to give birth prematurely, but it is too early to know for sure. There is also no evidence that Covid-19 can be passed from mother to baby during pregnancy or childbirth. It is important to talk to your healthcare provider about any concerns you may have.
Conclusion
Being pregnant during the Covid-19 pandemic can be a stressful and uncertain time. It is important to stay informed about the risks and take the necessary precautions to protect yourself and your baby. If you think you may have Covid-19, it is important to contact your healthcare provider right away.