Our OBGYN Answers FAQs About Covid-19 & Pregnancy
While the world has made significant strides in combating the COVID-19 virus, the reality is that it remains a significant health concern. For pregnant women, navigating the amazing of journey of pregnancy during these uncertain times when Covid 19 is still at large, can add an extra layer of caution and consideration. top Wayne County OBGYN Dr. Chadi Haddad is acutely aware of the questions and apprehensions that linger in the minds of expectant mothers when it comes to Covid 19.
Please know that the top Wayne County OBGYN Dr. Chadi Haddad and certified nurse midwife Lucy Schoemer are here to make your pregnancy a safe, healthy and beautiful experience for you and your baby. In this article they answer our pregnant patients’ questions about Covid-19 and pregnancy – exploring the intricacies of COVID-19 as it relates to pregnancy, and offering informed insights to alleviate concerns and guide pregnant women in making well-informed decisions for the health and safety of themselves and their unborn children.
How are pregnant women affected by Covid-19?
While doctors are still researching how Covid-19 affects pregnant woman, the outlook appears very hopeful!
According to current reports, the symptoms experienced by pregnant women with Covid-19 are no more severe than those of the general public. And, by taking the same precautionary steps as the general public, pregnant women increase their chances of avoiding infection. Pregnant women are advised to take precautions to avoid exposure to the virus. This includes following public health guidelines such as practicing good hand hygiene, wearing masks, and maintaining physical distance. So, this means you can still experience a safe and beautiful childbirth experience, even if you contract Covid 19 during your pregnancy.
Is the Covid-19 Vaccination Safe for Pregnant Women?
COVID-19 vaccination has been shown to be safe and effective for pregnant individuals. It not only protects the pregnant woman from severe illness but also provides some level of protection for the newborn.
How does Covid-19 affect an unborn baby?
At this time, researchers are still in the process of investigating how a fetus might be affected by Covid-19. For example, while some women infected with Covid-19 have experienced preterm births, many have not – so it remains unclear whether or not early delivery can be the result of the virus.
Fortunately, though a definitive answer requires further research, experts tend to agree that it is extremely unlikely for an expectant mother to pass Covid-19 onto her fetus during pregnancy.
What should expectant mothers do if they think they have Covid-19?
If you are pregnant, have a fever and/or cough, and believe you have been exposed to Covid-19 contact your OBGYN immediately.
And pregnant mothers who have severe or emergency warning signs for Covid-19 are urged to either call 911 or visit the hospital immediately.
Emergency warning signs of the coronavirus virus include:
• shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
• extended pain or feelings of pressure in the chest
• inability to respond to others
• sudden confusion
• blue coloration in the lips or face.
If you do have to go to the hospital, call ahead to let them know you are coming so they can prepare – and advise them that you are pregnant. Also have someone call your OBGYN or midwife as soon as possible, to let them know when and where you are being admitted.
If I have Covid-19, how will my labor & delivery be affected?
For most expectant mothers, the timing and delivery method (vaginal or cesarean) of their birth will not have to change because of the virus.
Generally, women confirmed to or suspected to have Covid-19 can have a normal, vaginal birth – and are not required to give birth via cesarean section just because of Covid-19.
If I have Covid-19, will I be able to hold my newborn baby?
According to WHO (World Health Organization), as long as respiratory hygiene protocols are followed, new mothers can touch their newborns. Newborn babies benefit greatly from close contact and early, exclusive breastfeeding.
While each pregnant mother’s experience is unique, some mothers with an active case of Covid-19 make arrangements with their health care team to have their newborn stay in a separate room as a way to reduce the baby’s risk of infection. However, other hospitals allow mother child contact, by following the WHO guidelines below.
For this reason, top Wayne County OBGYN Dr. Chadi Haddad and certified nurse midwife Lucy Schoemer will do everything they can to ensure that mothers of newborns may safely breastfeed, hold their baby skin-to-skin, and share the same room with their baby whenever possible, in keeping with the hospital policies in effect at the time of delivery.
Of course, as a precaution against the spread of Covid-19, new mothers who may be infected are advised to wear masks and to wash their hands both before and after touching their baby.
If I have Covid-19, will I pass it to my baby by breastfeeding?
While further research on the subject continues to be conducted, there have been no confirmed cases of Covid-19 being transmitted through breast milk.
In fact, not only is breast milk a newborn’s best possible source of nutrition, it is also proven to protect babies against numerous illnesses. If you have Covid-19 (coronavirus), consult with your OBGYN about whether it is in your baby’s best interest to begin or continue breastfeeding.
What if I have other questions about how Covid-19 affects my pregnancy right now?
The most up-to-date information about Covid-19 can be found on the CDC’s website, which undergoes frequent updates. Top Wayne County OBGYN Dr. Chadi Haddad and certified nurse midwife Lucy Schoemer are always available to speak to our pregnant patients any time you have a question or concern about their pregnancy and Covid-19.
We are here to help you, and ensure that you have a safe, healthy and beautiful delivery!
Top Wayne County OBGYN: 313.724.3759
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